Maharashtra government to invest Rs 10,000 crore to develop railway infra: Devendra Fadnavis

MUMBAI: Maharashtra government will invest Rs 10,000 crore to develop the railway infrastructure of the state, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said.

The CM laid the foundation stone of Sawantwadi Railway Terminus in Sawantwadi district in Konkan region in the presence of Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu.

He said infrastructure development forms the basis of the economic development of any state and the state government is committed towards developing roads, railways, airports and port network across Maharashtra.

"Though the Centre allocates funds for railways, the state government too will invest Rs 10,000 crore apart from union government's grants within the next five years," he said.

The Chief Minister further said that the government will coordinate with the Union Railway Ministry at the time of drafting the railway budget so that Maharashtra receives appropriate funds and priority projects are included by the Centre in the budget.

"Since our co-ordination with the Union Railways ministry is strong, we are working together in terms of development. Also, we are together focusing on completing projects that were announced in this year's budget,", he said.

"The state government will give priority to Chiplun- Karad, Ahmednagar-Parli-Beed and Vardha-Nanded-Yevatmal railway route. It will help connect the interiors of Maharashtra and enhance development," he added.

Jain Irrigation has shown interest to start mango- processing industry in Konkan region, he said, adding, that the government will help Jain Irrigation by signing an agreement with Konkan Agriculture University.

"The state has taken a decision to invest Rs 150 crore in constructing a mall dedicated to women self help groups," Fadnavis said.

"Women self help groups will get space in the mall where they can sell their products," he added.

The Chief Minister also assured that the proposed Chipi airport will be completed by March end next year and once completed it will boost the tourism industry of Sindhudurg district.

He further said that Mumbai-Goa National Highway will be completed within a stipulated time and the project-affected people will get maximum benefit.

Prabhu said that his ministry will consider constructing a second line on the Konkan Railway route.

Deepak Kesarkar, Guardian Minister of Sindhudurg demanded a new railway line between Belgaun and Sawantwadi.