File Photo: Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu
Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu today flagged off a local train connecting Pernem in Goa with Karwar in neighbouring Karnataka, about 100 km away.
Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar was present at the function held at Pernem railway station this afternoon. The train will be run by the Konkan Railway Corporation.
"When the Chief Minister requested, we immediately took up the issue and processed the file," Mr Prabhu said in his speech, adding that his association with Goa began with his marriage 22 years ago as his wife hails from the state.
"Being married to a girl from Goa, it was my responsibility to fulfil the request of locals," he said in a lighter vein.
"There is a huge potential for tourism (in Goa) and the Union Government will provide all the possible help for the development of the state," the Railway Minister assured.
Mr Parsekar lauded Mr Prabhu for quick decision. "When we met on May 24 we had requested him to start this train. In no time he completed all the process," the Chief Minister said.
The train will reduce the road traffic and accidents, Mr Parsekar said, adding that it would also provide connectivity to the new airport which is coming up at Pernem.
An electronic city project had been planned at Pernem, he said, adding "the train will reduce the gap between north and south Goa."