The issue figured during the talks between CM Sharma and Union Minister Vaishnav while reviewing ongoing and pending railway projects in Rajasthan.
Photo: SNS
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has requested Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnav to expedite the revival of the Balotra–Pachpadra rail link to facilitate smooth transportation of petroleum products from the upcoming Pachpadra Refinery, an HPCL, Rajasthan Government joint venture, which is set to begin commercial production by year-end.
The issue figured during the talks between CM Sharma and Union Minister Vaishnav while reviewing ongoing and pending railway projects in Rajasthan.
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The refinery is in the final stages of construction and the regular commercial production of refinery products is expected to commence by the end of the Calendar year.
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The rail project in reference is to provide the refinery, plant-site loading and unloading the goods for the plant. The Railway Ministry has already approved the laying of tracks from Balotra to Pachpadra-Sambhara.
Pachpadra, once a major salt hub with rail access during British rule, lost its link in the 1990s following the decline of salt production.
Authorities stress the importance of in-situ rail connectivity for efficient goods movement. The Railway Minister has assured the Chief Minister of prompt action.
Besides Balotra-Pachpadra rail link, other projects including Delhi-Jaisalmer, Banswara – Delhi, Dungarpur-Mumbai and Udaipur – Jodhpur train services also figured during the discussion.
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