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Sikkim Railway Boost: Rs 8.48 Crore Sanctioned for Melli-Dentam Survey

The Railway Ministry has approved Rs 8.48 crore for the Final Location Survey of the Melli-Dentam railway line in Sikkim. This funding represents significant progress in extending rail connectivity to southern and western parts of the border state. Meanwhile, the Dehradun-Tanakpur Express will now run three times weekly instead of once. Both developments aim to enhance regional connectivity, boost tourism, and strengthen economic activities.

Key Points: Railways Sanctions Rs 8.48 Cr for Melli-Dentam Line Survey

  • Railway Ministry allocates Rs 8.48 crore for Sikkim's Melli-Dentam line survey
  • Funding aims to extend rail connectivity to southern Sikkim regions
  • MP Indra Hang Subba had urged expedited project completion in July meeting
  • Survey will improve accessibility and boost tourism in border areas
  • Dehradun-Tanakpur Express frequency increased to three days weekly
  • Enhanced connectivity expected to strengthen economic activities in Uttarakhand
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Ministry of Railways sanctions Rs 8.48 Cr for Final Location Survey of Melli-Dentam railway line in Sikkim

Ministry of Railways allocates Rs 8.48 crore for Final Location Survey of Melli-Dentam railway line in Sikkim, enhancing border connectivity and tourism.

"This decision is a significant, public-welfare-oriented gift for the people of Uttarakhand - Pushkar Singh Dhami"

New Delhi, November 4

The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned Rs 8.48 crore for the Final Location Survey (FLS) of the proposed Melli-Dentam railway line project in Sikkim.

This crucial allocation marks another step forward in extending railway connectivity to the southern and western regions of the border State.

The Railway Ministry communicated the FLS fund allocation to the Northeast Frontier Railway through an official letter issued on October 24.

It may be recalled that Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba had met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on July 25 this year, urging him to expedite processes related to the Melli-Dentam railway project.

The MP had pressed for the timely completion of the FLS, preparation and approval of the Detailed Project Report (DPR), and the early execution of the project, citing its importance for improving accessibility, promoting tourism, and strengthening national security in the region.

Meanwhile, on October 28, the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has approved the proposal to increase the frequency of the Dehradun-Tanakpur Express (Train No. 15019/15020).

In a letter sent to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed that the Dehradun-Tanakpur Weekly Express will now operate three days a week instead of once a week.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said this decision is a significant, public-welfare-oriented gift for the people of Uttarakhand. With this, passengers travelling between Dehradun and the Kumaon region will now have more convenient and regular rail connectivity.

He added that this step will not only strengthen connectivity and tourism between Garhwal and Kumaon but also boost economic and social activities across the state. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, stating that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Government is continuously supporting Uttarakhand's journey towards new heights of development.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some progress on Sikkim railway connectivity. This will be crucial for both tourism and strategic purposes given the border location. Hope they complete the survey quickly!
A
Arjun K
Good to see our MP Indra Hang Subba actively following up on this project. This is what elected representatives should do - work for development of their constituencies.
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the development focus, I hope they conduct proper environmental impact assessments. The Himalayan ecosystem is very fragile and we need sustainable development.
V
Vikram M
The Uttarakhand train frequency increase is also welcome! Both these projects show the government's focus on improving connectivity in Himalayan states. Good for tourism and local economy.
K
Karthik V
8.48 crore just for survey? Seems quite high. Hope this money is used judiciously and we see actual construction starting soon. Too many projects remain stuck at survey stage.

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