§ MR. E. STANHOPEasked the Under Secretary of State for India, Whether it is a fact that sanction has been given to the construction of a Railway between Umballa and Kalka, and of another towards Ootacamund; and, whether it is intended to proceed with these two Railways at a time when the traffic returns of Indian Railways are showing a considerable falling off, and when the policy 1116 of the emigration of Government Departments to the hill stations is being reconsidered?
§ MR. J. K. CROSSThe line from Umballa to Kalka is one of those which have been surveyed; but no intimation of sanction to its construction has reached the India Office. The line towards Ootacamund is not one which Government has contemplated constructing. Promoters of a Company for making such a line have been in negotiation with the Government of Madras and the Secretary of State; but no terms have yet been arrived at.