Punjab: Goraya level crossing relief scheme postponed

Punjab: Measures initiated by the district administration and railways to build an underpass and an overbridge as an alternative to the challenging Goraya level crossing, which forces residents to wait in traffic for over two hours daily, have currently come to a halt. The Tribune in an article titled “Many lives lost at Goraya railway crossing” on these pages had highlighted the plight of Goraya residents who have to endure harrowing conditions at the crossing which remains closed for long hours everyday. This had led to inordinate delays, accidents and medical emergencies on the section. Acting on the issue, the railways sought an NOC from the Phillaur administration for the railways’ proposal to build two underpasses and a railway overbridge on this section as an alternative to the crossing. However, railway officials have said that based on logistics and social obligations at the site, the projects are yet to be put on hold. The Railway Department had sent a proposal to close S-82 Sargundi Gate, S-83 Gate Goraya and S-84 Dallewal Gate and construct a road overbridge and two limited height subways/underpasses at the same place.

In this regard, NOC was sought from the administration. In this regard, SDM Phillaur has issued a notice and sought suggestions and objections. In this regard, a meeting was also held recently by the Shopkeepers Association Goraya. A large number of shopkeepers and city residents participated in it and expressed their views and also gave suggestions. Councilors also attended the meeting. Most of the shopkeepers said that underpasses should be constructed at Dallewal and Sargundi Gate and overbridge, but the gate between the city and Goraya should not be touched. SDM Phillaur Amanpal Singh said, “Suggestions and objections were sought from the residents and the administration received their replies a week ago, which have been forwarded to the railways. The railway crossings and gates all come under the railways, according to which it is proposed to construct an underpass/subway and overhead bridge at gate number 82 and underpasses at gate numbers 83 and 84. The work started on the project and the work started – all will be done under the railways.” Ludhiana ADM Railway Akashdeep Singh said, “The administration has already given NOC for the project. But based on the situation on the spot and social constraints, the projects for underpasses and overbridges are not possible at present. The places where the projects are proposed have establishments of many shopkeepers and may cause hindrance. At present, the project is being reviewed further.”