Sikkim on Track: Centre Greenlights Final Survey for State’s Game-Changing Rail Link

In a historic moment for Sikkim's connectivity, the Final Location Survey (FLS) of a new railway line between Melli and Dentam via Jorethang and Legship has been approved by the Ministry of Railways. The survey will be conducted by the Northeast Frontier Railway and will cost ₹2.25 crore.

 

This 75-km planned railway line is considered a strategic extension of the upcoming Sivok–Rangpo railway line, which is set to commence operations in 2027. The new line will fill an important infrastructure gap, connecting remote locations like Dentam, close to the Indo-Nepal border at Chiwabhanjyang, with the national rail network.

 

The officials indicated that Melli, the main entry to southern and western Sikkim, will be an important node for this extension, with more connectivity of the area with the nation's transportation system. The FLS will provide detailed technical and feasibility inputs to guide the final alignment, engineering design, and cost estimate of the project.

 

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has instructed the survey to be initiated immediately, following the persistent intervention of Sikkim's Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba. The project will serve as a spur to regional economic growth, particularly in Gyalshing and its area, by facilitating access, permitting tourism, promoting trade, and generating employment opportunities. Officials said tenders for conducting the survey would be invited shortly, paving the way for planning and subsequent construction.

 

Source: The New Indian Express