With a view to resolving the impasse concerning the East-West metro project, union Minister of State for Urban Development Babul Supriyo Tuesday met 60 settlers at Duttabad in the satellite township of Salt Lake who have refused to relocate thus blocking the corridor.
Supriyo, who also held talks with Metro railway officials, said he was willing to talk to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to resolve the issue.
"The bone of contention is 365 metres where these 60 families are settled. The entire project now depends on this dot that is Duttabad. Just for 60 families such an important track cannot remain stalled," Supriyo told media persons after his meeting with Metro officials.
The 14.67-km corridor will connect Kolkata's satellite township Salt lake with Howrah but has run into problems at Duttabad where the 60 families have refused to relocate claiming their livelihood would be affected.
"We need to ensure these families are relocated and rehabilitated so that the work can be started at the earliest. If need be, I am willing to talk to the chief minister," said the singer turned politician.
"I know they (state's ruling Trinamool Congress) have reservations. They may not want to talk to half ministers, but since we sincerely want to ensure the project is completed, I am ready to talk to her (Banerjee)," said Supriyo referring to Trinamool leaders' earlier comments that a minister of state was powerless.
Supriyo later met the residents of Duttabad assuring them of their proper relocation.
"During my days of struggle as a singer in Mumbai, I used to live in a shanty that was even smaller than yours. I assure you all your grievances will be redressed but please do not stall the project like this," he told the settlers.