Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Jan 15: MLA Kathua Dr Bharat Bhushan today met Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh in New Delhi to discuss various issues affecting the Kathua constituency.
Dr Bhushan highlighted the urgent need for the upgradation and renovation of Kathua Railway Station, which has been in operation since the early 1970s.
He pointed out that the station lacks basic infrastructure, with broken tiles on platforms, no seating arrangements, and poorly maintained waiting areas, including the AC room and public conveniences.
He requested that the Railway Minister address these issues and consider constructing an additional railway station in the heart of Kathua town, a proposal that had been suggested years ago.
The MLA also stressed the need for the installation of two automated escalators at the station to ease commuter movement and transportation of luggage.
He further urged Dr Jitendra Singh to take steps to reinstate the stoppage of the Tata Muri Express, Ardhana Express, and Kanpur Express at Kathua, which were discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Dr Bhushan raised the issue of constructing an open flyover between Medical College Kathua and Logate Morh, similar to the one built in Samba by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This would ease traffic congestion and reduce accidents, benefiting residents of Kathua, Kalibari, Kharote, Janglote, Patyari and nearby areas.
The MLA also proposed the construction of a tunnel between Kathera and Bhini Bridge to shorten the distance between Kathua and Billawar. This project, he noted, would boost tourism by providing easier access to the famous Mata Sukrala Devi and Mata Bala Sundri shrines.
Other issues raised by Dr Bhushan included increased central funding for the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Urban), the establishment of a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Nagri-Parole, the construction of an Indoor Sports Stadium in Kathua, and the renovation of the Government Degree College Kathua’s auditorium.
He also called for the construction of a bridge connecting Mehtabpur-Maroli with Tarda, Lakhanpur.
Dr Jitendra Singh assured the MLA that he would take up these concerns with the relevant authorities and Ministers.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
