Get rid of British mentality, public tell railways

Railway department shroud work for convenience of people and should come of British mentality, opined public at an interaction with Mysuru Division of Railways  Senior Engineer Devendra Guptha, organised at Birur Station on Saturday.

Freedom fighter Ekoramaswamy alleged that even though the railway stations are wearing new looks, the situation of basic amenities has remained unchanged. Many important trains are not stopped. The work on new railway stations are poor.

The platforms constructed in Ajjampur and Kadur have worn out within a year. But, no action has been taken against the contractors.

Kanthilal Jain accused that though the seats in Janmashatabdhi train are vacant, tickets are not given in Birur. Even the youth struggle to climb the stairs to go to second platform and the plight of senior citizen is miserable.  Yashwanthpur-Mumbai Chalukya Express has been extended to Tirunelveli and has been no use for Kannadigas, he said and added that there are no toilets and reservation counter at Birur railway station.

The public complained that there are no shelters in railway platforms in Chikkamagaluru and owing to non-confirmation of e-tickets, one has to shell out thousands of rupees of fine.

They demanded stoppage of Harihar-Yashvanthpur Samparkakranthi express in Birur and urged to prohibit beggars and illegal vendors in railway station. They meanwhile pressed for measures to ensure the quality of food items provided in railway stations and trains.

Mysuru division Senior engineer Devendra Guptha said that many changes have been introduced in railways. Customer Felicitation Fortnight is being observed to create awareness on cleanliness. Complaints regarding food quality, medical assistance, coach maintenance could be submitted at toll free number 138. Also, the helpline number ‘182’ has been started to provide emergency service during women atrocity, accidents and thefts, he said.

Guptha further said that actions have been taken against many regarding the poor work. Plans are on to construct ramp and to set up reservation counter in Birur. Also, steps will be taken towards the stoppage of trains in Birur. A drinking water unit is being built in Birur. Also, shelter will be constructed in Tarikere, Masarahalli and Shivapura stations. Shivapura railway station road will be upgraded, he said.

He said that eight manless level crossings in Chikkamagaluru will be closed and gateman will be deployed in any one of them. ‘Gate mitra’ scheme will be implemented in 10 level crossings. Cold drinking water unit will be made available at Tarikere, Kadur and Birur.

Emphasis will be laid on basic amenities such as water, toilets and ramps. Eco-toilets will be installed in 142 coaches. seating arrangements will be made at a cost of Rs 11.26 lakh, with MP’s fund, he added. Assistant Divisional Engineer R P Malkari, A Tirumala, senior publicity officer Anupchand were present among others.
DH News Service