Railway bridge hanging fire

Rajamahendravaram: The much awaited foundation stone laying ceremony date for the proposed rail bridge on river Gowthami between Kotipalli and Mukteswaram has not yet been finalised.

This bridge is part and parcel of Kotipalli-Narsapur railway line and the construction cost of the bridge is Rs 358 crore and tenders were finalised six months ago. Earlier it was planned to conduct the foundation programme four months ago, when there were cordial relations between state and central governments.

Now, because of differences between state and central governments, it has become uncertain with regard to foundation stone laying programme. Earlier, Amalapuram MP Pandula Ravindrababu had assured to bring Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the programme. But, because of the existing developments, the Prime Minister participation has become doubtful.

Meanwhile, contractor BSN company erected temporary sheds at the working spot, but not showing interest to start the works. Works would not be taken up during rainy season. Railway Board devised an action plan with an estimated cost of Rs 1,045 crore for the railway line. Because of the delay, in executing the works, the construction cost may escalate.

So far the central government allotted Rs 850 crore to the railway line and the state government also released its share of Rs 125 crore. The length of the railway line between Kotipalli and Narsapur is 57 kms and the central government devised an action plan with an estimated cost of Rs 1,045 crore. Along with the rail bridge on river Gowthami, two more bridges on Vynateya and Vasista also will be constructed.