Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Wednesday a major investment opportunity of Rs 60,000 crore by the railways in West Bengal. He pointed out that 61 railway projects are currently delayed due to land acquisition issues and emphasized the need for the state government to cooperate for the completion of these projects.

Speaking at the inauguration of several railway projects and new train services at Sealdah station, Vaishnaw stressed that this significant investment could only move forward with the state's support. He highlighted that there are 26 km of Metro railway projects that are also facing delays due to land-related challenges.

During a Swachh Bharat event at Braithwaite & Co Ltd, where he inspected the PSU, Vaishnaw said, “Development is crucial, and there should be no politics over railway projects. If the state government works with us, the pending projects can be completed for the benefit of the people.”

On a different note, Vaishnaw responded to the recent case of a rape-murder of a medic at R G Kar hospital, which led to a strike by junior doctors, disrupting health services. He expressed his solidarity, saying, “The puja season has started, and we are praying for justice for our daughter, our sister.”

Vaishnaw also discussed key development milestones achieved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He noted that the Kolkata Metro network expanded from 28 km in 2014 to 38 km, with increased funding for railway development in West Bengal. The current allocation stands at Rs 13,941 crore, up from an average of Rs 4,380 crore in previous years.

Addressing concerns over railway safety, Vaishnaw highlighted the implementation of Kavach 4.2, an advanced safety system covering nearly 2,000 km of railway tracks and 900 locomotives. He stated that this system ensures higher safety standards, with global certifications backing its efficiency.

He also noted a significant drop in railway accidents, with annual accidents reduced by over 60% in the last decade. “Ten years ago, there were 171 accidents each year, but last year, the number dropped to 40. Derailments, which once averaged 450-500 annually, have now decreased to around 80,” Vaishnaw said. He credited these improvements to advancements in technology, better maintenance, and improved training for railway employees.

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