Gadag
On Thursday, in Koppal district’s Kustagi, Union Minister V. Somanna flagged off the Gadag-Wadi railway project. This marks the first time since independence that railway services have commenced in this region, fulfilling a century-old dream. The event was attended by Minister Shivraj Tangedagi, MLA Basavaraj Raireddi, and Doddnagaud Patil.
Today, the Gadag-Talikallu-Kustagi railway route was officially inaugurated. Additionally, a passenger train connecting Kustagi to Hubli has also begun operations. The existing route now extends from Talikallu to Kustagi via a newly constructed track, improving connectivity between Mumbai and Karnataka.
Speaking after the inauguration, Minister V. Somanna said, “The railway department is a sensitive sector. Raireddi’s hard work has borne fruit, thanks to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. We don’t undertake projects in the railways department without proper planning. During Deve Gowda’s time, the national highways were developed; now, under Modi’s leadership, the railway sector has achieved significant progress.”
The approval for this project was obtained around 2013-14. Minister Raireddi noted, “The fact that the project has now been launched is a matter of great pride. Constructing railway lines requires immense effort. When I was a Member of Parliament, I approved the Murinaabad and Mehboob railway projects.”
This railway project is not just about transportation; it promises economic growth, job creation, and regional development. With ongoing cooperation between the central and state governments, the future of this region looks promising.