TAMIL NADU GOVT DECLINED MADURAI-THOOTHUKUDI RAIL PROJECT: ASHWINI VAISHNAW

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has expressed its unwillingness to proceed with the new Madurai-Tuticorin railway project via Aruppukottai, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Friday.

Responding to questions about the reported closure of the project’s land acquisition office, the minister stated that the state government had communicated its decision in writing, indicating it does not wish to pursue the project.

The statement comes despite Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin’s letter to the Centre in August 2024, seeking funds for new railway projects, including the Madurai-Tuticorin line via Aruppukottai.

Speaking about railway development in Tamil Nadu, Vaishnaw emphasized the need for greater support from the state government, particularly in land acquisition, to ensure public welfare takes precedence over politics.

He said, “If Tamil Nadu’s support aligns with the Government of India’s thrust for development and both work in tandem, we can provide better facilities to the people.” The minister made these remarks after inspecting Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat sleeper coaches at ICF Chennai.

On the topic of safety enhancements, Vaishnaw explained that recent measures have focused on addressing root causes. Citing the Kavarapettai derailment near Thiruvallur in October 2024, he noted that bolts on point machines had been tampered with in one incident. “We have now introduced a new bolt design that cannot be removed, ensuring enhanced safety,” he said.