Has the Government Approved the Final Survey for a New Railway Line in Sikkim?
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Synopsis
The Railway Ministry's recent approval for the final survey of a new railway line from Melli to Dentam in Sikkim aims to enhance tourism and employment opportunities. This initiative is expected to connect Sikkim with the national railway network for the first time, fostering economic growth and improving accessibility to essential goods.
Key Takeaways
- New railway line from Melli to Dentam approved.
- 75 km length projected for the new line.
- Boost for tourism and employment in Sikkim.
- Part of the Sivok-Rangpo project.
- Estimated cost is Rs 12,474 crore.
New Delhi, May 11 (NationPress) In a significant move to enhance rail connectivity for the purpose of fostering tourism and creating job opportunities in the northeastern states, the Railway Ministry has officially sanctioned the final location survey for a planned railway line stretching from Melli to Dentam in Sikkim, according to an official announcement made on Sunday.
The proposed railway line, which will traverse through Jorethang and Legship, is set to enhance rail accessibility to the western and southern areas of Sikkim, thereby promoting tourism and economic development, as stated by the official.
With an anticipated length of 75 km based on initial feasibility studies, this line aims to bolster connectivity as part of the strategic extension of the ongoing Sivok-Rangpo railway project.
The Sivok-Rangpo railway initiative stands as one of the key connectivity projects in the northeastern region and is projected for completion by 2027.
As per the Northeast Frontier Railway website, work on the Sivok-Rangpo venture is progressing rapidly to establish a railway link between Sikkim and the rest of India.
The overall length of the Sivok-Rangpo railway line project is 44.96 km (with 41.55 km in West Bengal and 3.41 km in Sikkim). Out of this total distance, 38.623 km (approximately 86 percent) comprises tunnels, 2.24 km (around 5 percent) consists of bridges, and 4.79 km (about 9 percent) is allocated to open cutting and filling for station yards.
An official indicated that the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) is being utilized for tunnel construction. The proposed line will feature 14 tunnels, with the longest measuring 5.30 km and the shortest at 538 meters.
The project also encompasses 13 major bridges and 10 minor bridges, along with the establishment of five stations: Sivok, Riyang, Melli, Rangpo, and one underground halt station named Teesta Bazar.
The anticipated cost of the project is approximately Rs 12,474 crore, according to the Northeast Frontier Railway website.
This initiative is among the prestigious ongoing national projects in India, and upon its completion, it will mark the first time the state of Sikkim is linked via railway. Once operational, this railway line will facilitate a steady supply of essential goods to Sikkim.
Moreover, it will enable the introduction of long-distance train services from Sikkim to various regions across the country, significantly enhancing tourism and economic activities in the state.
Point of View
I believe this railway initiative is a pivotal step toward integrating Sikkim with the broader Indian railway network. It symbolizes the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure in the northeastern states, promoting tourism, and generating employment. This project, once completed, will bring substantial benefits to the local population and the region as a whole.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new railway line in Sikkim?
The new railway line will connect Melli to Dentam and aims to enhance tourism and economic activities in Sikkim.
How long is the proposed railway line?
The proposed railway line is estimated to be 75 km long.
When is the Sivok-Rangpo project expected to be completed?
The Sivok-Rangpo railway project is expected to be completed by 2027.
What is the estimated cost of the railway project?
The estimated cost of the project is Rs 12,474 crore.
How many stations will be constructed?
Five stations will be constructed as part of the project.
