The delegation emphasized that the split will accelerate economic growth, create jobs and enhance connectivity for millions of pilgrims and citizens. | Photo credit: Representative image
In a major political push to revamp the railway infrastructure of southern Andhra Pradesh, members of the Balaji Railway Division Sadhana Samiti on Thursday (December 4) presented a long-pending demand for the creation of a Tirupati-headquartered Balaji Railway Division before Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram mohan Naidu, TDP Speaker Lavu Krishna Devarayulu and Chittoor Member of Parliament Daggumalla Durga Prasad, accompanied by committee convener Kuppala Giridhar Kumar and other representatives, presented a detailed memorandum at the minister’s parliamentary chamber. They stressed that the proposal, which has been under discussion for almost three decades, is essential to ensure equitable development in the economically backward Rayalseema region.
Krishna Devarayulu emphasized that the bifurcation would catalyze economic growth, create jobs and enhance connectivity for millions of pilgrims and citizens. Noting the increasing passenger load at Tirupati and nearby stations, the delegation urged for swift action.
They called for comprehensive modernization of Tiruchanoor, Renigunta and Chandragiri stations, international cargo terminal to support industrial boom in Sri City and speeding up of several key projects including Kadapa-Bengaluru line, Nadikudi-SriKalahasti corridor and Tirupati-Katpadi twinning. They further sought the inclusion of Naidupeta, Gudur, Tada, Puttur, Nagari and Prashanti Nilayam stations under the proposed division, along with a third line between Tirupati and Gudur to ease congestion.
The delegation also demanded increase in capacity of Renigunta CRS, expansion of Chittoor goods depot, utilization of Pakala railway land for maintenance shop and extension of Simhapuri Express up to Renigunta. Samiti convener Giridhar said Mr. Vaishnaw responded positively and ensured due consideration of their demands.
Published – 04 Dec 2025 20:30 IST
