SOUTH MAIN TRUNK.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 74, 28 March 1929, Page 8

SOUTH MAIN TRUNK.

COMPLETION CERTAIN.

INSPECTION BT MINISTERS.

"LESS DIFFICULT THAN SUPPOSED."

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.)

CHRISTCHURCH, Wednesday

The Minister of Lands and Agriculture, the Hon. G. W. Forbes, and the Minister of Labour, the Hon. W. A. Veitch to-day inspected the coastal route for the line to close the gap of 73 miles in the South Island Main Trunk railway between Parnassus and Wharanui. Mr. Forbes stayed at his home at Cheviot and Mr. Veitch came to Christchurch and joined the ferry steamer at Lyttelton for Wellington. Interviewed this evening, Mr. Veitch said his impression was that tha line would be less difficult to construct than he had supposed. Another inspection would be made before the final decision was made and the question would go before the Cabinet. Nothing could be said definitely as to the exact route, but the public could rest assured that the line would be constructed. He believed much of the country to be traversed would be suitable for closer settlement. . It is understood that it is now certain that the coastal route and not either of the two projected inland routes will be followed by the railway.