Srikakulam Gets Major Boost: Barrage Cleared, Rail Network Realigned

Demonstrating his commitment to the development of Srikakulam district, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu shared three key achievements related to the district through a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account. He expressed happiness over the fulfilment of decades-long aspirations of the people.

Taking into account the significance of the nearly 400-year-old Pathapatnam Sri Neelamani Durgamma Temple , key changes have been made to the plan of the Railway Over Bridge (ROB) being constructed on National Highway 326A . Responding positively to appeals from devotees and locals, the Centre ensured that the sanctity of the temple remains undisturbed.

An additional ₹15 crore has been sanctioned by the National Highways Authority for these modifications. This will ensure that the annual grand Maha Jatara festival is held without disruption. The Minister expressed special thanks to Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari for approving the changes in this crucial project connecting Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.

In another significant development, a long-pending demand of North Andhra people has been addressed. The Railway Board has issued official orders transferring seven key railway stations from Ichchapuram to Palasa , currently under the Khurda Division of the East Coast Railway, into the Visakhapatnam-based South Coast Railway Zone .

Despite the earlier announcement of the zone, these stations remained under a different zone, leading to repeated representations in Parliament. Following multiple appeals to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the decision has now been finalised. This move is expected to improve railway infrastructure and passenger amenities in Srikakulam district.

Clearing long-standing hurdles, the Centre’s Ministry of Jal Shakti has issued a gazette notification for the construction of the Neradi Barrage on the Vamsadhara river , in line with the tribunal award. This marks a historic milestone for the district.

The project, which has been a sensitive inter-state issue, saw continuous efforts through parliamentary interventions and consultations with Union Ministers. Once completed, the barrage will significantly boost irrigation and make Srikakulam more agriculturally prosperous .

The Minister thanked Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their support.

He noted that these achievements were made possible not just through requests but through sustained grassroots efforts and political determination . He also acknowledged the guidance of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in resolving key issues like the barrage and railway station merger.

These three initiatives are expected to become the backbone of Srikakulam’s overall development , enhancing employment opportunities, improving irrigation, and maintaining a balance between spiritual heritage and infrastructure growth .