Hyderabad: Mellacheruvu-Hyderabad train route plans are underway, Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies N. Uttam Kumar Reddy announced on Sunday, stating that the proposed rail link is a priority to boost industry and improve pilgrim access.
Speaking to the media after offering special prayers at the historic Sri Ishta Kameswari Sametha Swayambhu Shambulingeshwara Swamy Temple in Mellacheruvu at 4 am on Mahashivaratri, the Minister said he had been coordinating with concerned agencies to advance the proposal. He stressed that the railway line would connect Mellacheruvu in Suryapet district directly with Hyderabad.
Uttam Kumar Reddy said the plan includes laying a double railway line with passenger train services. According to him, the Mellacheruvu-Hyderabad train route would ease travel for local residents and devotees visiting the temple. Moreover, it would strengthen connectivity for the rapidly expanding industrial zone in the region.
Mellacheruvu-Hyderabad train route to support industry and pilgrims
The Minister recalled his earlier efforts to secure railway connectivity by engaging with the Centre. He said the proposed project would further accelerate industrial growth and improve transport infrastructure in the district.
Highlighting his three-decade association with Mellacheruvu, Uttam Kumar Reddy said he had contributed to its development into an industrial hub. He noted that bringing Krishna River water for irrigation and drinking purposes to Mellacheruvu and nearby villages remained one of his key achievements.
The Minister also said the state government, with the support of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, sanctioned Rs 1 crore this year for Mahashivaratri festivities and temple development. He added that the funds would help provide essential facilities for the increasing number of pilgrims.
During the visit, temple authorities accorded him a traditional Poorna Kumbha welcome. He later offered prayers seeking prosperity for the state, timely rainfall and the welfare of farmers under the Congress government.