HC Deb 13 November 1884 vol 293 cc1587-8
SIR HENRY TYLER

asked the Under Secretary of State for India, What progress has been made with the Quetta Railway; on how many miles the rails has been laid; on how many miles the formation has been prepared; what proportion of the necessary materials have been provided or are on the ground; and, when it is expected to be completed?

MR. J. K. CROSS

I wish to be allowed to correct an answer which I gave on the 27th of October in reply to a Question by the right hon. Gentleman opposite (Sir E. Assheton Cross) concerning this railway. I stated that no permanent way having being laid above Nari, the opportunity for taking it up did not occur. I learn, on direct communication with the Government of India on the subject, that— Rails were laid one mile near Nari, 2½ miles near Gandakin, and 2½ near Kochali. The rails near Nari were removed on washing away of embankment, others to use for other purposes. These rails had been placed on detached portions of earthworks 15 and 22 miles from Nari. In reply to the Question of the hon. Member for Harwich (Sir Henry Tyler), I am not able to give the definite information he asks for; but from a telegram received yesterday from the Government of India, I learn that the line may be completed in two years. The progress depends very much on the work in the tunnels; and I may add that some immediate delay may occur from an outbreak of cholera which has taken place at Nari.

SIR R. ASSHETON CROSS

said, he was obliged to the hon. Gentleman for giving him Notice of this matter. He should like to know whether the statement interfered with the allegations made as to the rails being laid and the works in progress for 40 miles beyond Sibi?

MR. J. K. CROSS

said, earthworks were in progress. He would read the following telegram, dated October 25, from the Viceroy— Line practically complete, with temporary bridges, to foot of Bolan and Nari Gorge, distance in all of about 165 miles. Permanent bridges and ballastings in progress. For 30 miles from Nari Gorge into Hurnai Valley at Spintangi earthworks more or less finished; bridges not commenced, but girders at Sibi. From Spintangi to Quetta service road for country carts made for whole distance, except two miles through Chapari Rift. There was nothing in this about the permanent way.