The Bhuj-Naliya broad gauge project in Kutch is crucial for border security, goods transportation, and population displacement. However, due to shortcomings by the railway department, the project was delayed for years. In January 2023, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) sought clarification on the delay. The railway ministry responded...
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in September 2023, claiming that the corrective actions were already taken in July 2018. Despite recommendations from the commissioner of railway safety (CRS), the Ahmedabad Division faced challenges in providing essential infrastructure for the initial single-track operation of the Bhuj-Deshlepura section. The lack of essential facilities required for the 'open line' operations led to delays in goods traffic, as the project was transferred to RITES and G-RIDE for commercial operations. The CAG found the railway administration's response inadequate and highlighted the lack of timely corrective measures despite the CRS's identified deficiencies. The CAG recommended accountability for the delay in opening the Bhuj-Deshlepura route.