DEMANDS FOR RAILWAYS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8897, 17 August 1907, Page 2

DEMANDS FOR RAILWAYS.

Masterton—Waipukurau,

Per Pi ess Association Wellington, August 16. A deputation from Masterton and Akitio accompanied by Messrs Hogg and Boss, M.H.B.'s waited on the ActingMinister for Public Works to-night asking that Government would construct a loop line of railway from Masterton to Waipnkurau. The Minister said no Eaiiways Authorisation Bill would be passed this year therefore he could give no promise that the line could be undertaken for some time. He inquired if a light line would meet the requirements of the district or whether road construction by Govenment would be an advantage. The deputation thought it would be better to undertake a proper gauge lino and that owing to lack of metal the railway should precede roads. The Minister promised to . secure a report from a Public Works' official as to the feasibility and cost of the lino.

Roxburgh Line

Inveecabgi:l,i., August I*3. One of the largest and most enthusiastic public meetings held in Inveicargill discussed to-night the question of railway communication between Bolburgh - and the seaboard. The Dunedin agitation for a large vote for the LawrenceRoxburgh railway was adversely criticised on the ground that the route was bad . from the point of view of distance, costof construction and probably revenue. Argument was adduced to show that a cheaper and more direct communication through agricultural land that would , ensure profitable traffic from the opening ,; of the line could be obtained either by the r ; Waipahi-Heriot route or by extension of the Gore-Waikaka line. »'

After animated discussion the follow- i; ing resolution was carried unanimously "I" with acclamation:—" That in view of the .-_ strong opposition by a large section of the ;" community to the expenditure of further ■: money on the Lawrence-Roxburgh Kailway and the opinion held that a much ■; better route is available at. greatly less cost, this meeting asks Government to appoint a commission of experts to inspect and report as to the most suitable and . cheapest route to connect Roxburgh witn .. the main line.