Gauge conversion work on TN rail section by Mar 2007: Velu

Vriddachalam, Tamil Nadu, Dec 20 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Railways R Velu today said gauge conversion work on riddachalam-Salem Section will be completed by March 2007.

Speaking to newspersons after inauguration of computerised ticketing system for unreserved seats at the railway station here, Mr Velu said the gauge conversion work on the Chennai-Salem section will also be expedited.

The Centre had approved among other schemes the track doubling work on Chennai-Villupuram Section and guage conversion work on the 170 km Tindivanam-Nagarai line.

After the UPA Government came to power at the Centre, the Railways had not only resumed dividend payments but also reporting increasing surplus.

The improved performance had come from streamlining freight operations with trains carrying load even in the return direction thereby earning profits of Rs 7,500 crore from this operation.

The Railways offered 30 per cent discount on the freight being carried in the return direction.

Carrying iron ore meant for exports contributed Rs 2,000 crore to the kitty while the sale of rolling stock to the private sector raked in more profits.

The Railways hoped to close the year 2005-06 with more than Rs 20,000 crore surplus.

Calling it the golden period of the Railways, Mr Velu said the electrification work on the Villupuram-Tiruchirapalli section was planned at a cost of Rs 2,700 crore.

He also said the Villupuram-Tuticorin track doubling plan was ready.

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