Clarification regarding shifting of Wagon POH workshop from Kalahandi, Odisha to Vishakapatnam (Vadlapudi), Andhra Pradesh.

Ministry of Railways will like to clarify as under Regarding shifting of Wagon POH workshop from Kalahandi, Odisha to Vishakapatnam (Vadlapudi), Andhra Pradesh, Ministry of Railways will like to clarify as under:

• Budget announcement was made in the year 2013-14 for setting up a Wagon Periodical Overhauling (POH) Workshop in Kalahandi, Odisha.

• Proposal was sent to Railway board in June 2013 by East Coast Railway (ECoR). During scrutiny of the proposal certain problems were observed -

a) The location was on busy Vizianagaram-Titlagarh section, a very important line for freight movement. It is not a natural point for empty wagon arising and would lead to avoidable empty movement of wagons.

b) There was problem of water availability at the proposed location at Kalahandi.

c) Land would have to be acquired from State Govt. for setting up this workshop.

• Accordingly, ECoR was advised to submit a detailed feasibility report in this regard. In the Feasibility report it was concluded that due to operational ease, availability of Railway land, availability of water and cost benefits, Vishakhapatnam area is better suited for setting up of wagon POH workshop.

• Setting up of this Workshop in Vishakapatnam (Vadlapudi) has been sanctioned in the last years’ Railway Budget i.e. 2015-16.

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Ministry of Railways Celebrates International Women’s Day, 2016

To celebrate International Womens’ Day and to honour Railway Women Employees, a function was held in Rail Bhwan Delhi today. Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu was the chief guest at the function. Minister of State Shri Manoj Sinha was specially present on the occasion. Chairman, Railway Board, Shri A.K. Mital, other Board Members were also present on the occasion. The programme was followed by Demo of Self Defense by RSPF & ITBP Personnel, Song by Rangoli Group, Discussion on Rights of Women at Work Place & At Home, Quiz, Talk on Health & Wellness, Antakshari by Rangoli Group etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Railways said that the Women’s Day is not only just a day to be celebrated but it is a day for every individual to pledge to move from talk to purposeful action. He said that there are lots of women in and around the world who have set high performance benchmark and efficiency parameters for men to follow and have set a new work culture in the country. He said that there are lots of women employees in Railways performing managerial and field works and are contributing their best in smooth functioning. He further said that achievements and efficiency of women need to be recognized at all levels. He said that instead of sympathizing with the women, we need to empower women to give them equality in all respects like literacy, education, financial status etc.