Dharamshala March 18, 2025
Lok Sabha MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj, while addressing the House in support of the railway budget, urged the central government to upgrade the Pathankot–Jogindernagar railway line to broad gauge. He also called for a survey to explore the feasibility of a new railway line connecting popular tourist destinations, including Dalhousie, Chamba, and Khajjiar.
Dr. Bhardwaj highlighted that the broad gauge line, which currently extends to Amb/Una, could be seamlessly extended to the revered Devi Sathal in Kangra by constructing a tunnel through the adjoining mountain. He urged the Railway Minister to prioritize this project for regional development.
Drawing a historical reference, he pointed out that the British successfully built the Kalka–Shimla railway line without modern technology, relying on the expertise of local resident Bhalku Ram. Given today’s advancements in engineering and infrastructure, he argued that constructing a railway line to Dalhousie, Khajjiar, and Chamba—situated at a lower altitude than Shimla—should be feasible. He reiterated his request for a survey to assess its implementation.
Expressing concern over the lack of development on the Pathankot–Jogindernagar railway line since its construction during British rule, Dr. Bhardwaj emphasized the importance of rail connectivity for economic and tourism growth in Kangra. “Railways are the heartbeat of the nation, and this heartbeat must resonate in my hometown as well,” he stated.
He also extended his gratitude to the Railway Minister for the record allocation of ₹2,716 crore for Himachal Pradesh in this year’s railway budget. Additionally, he appreciated the inclusion of Amb, Andaura, Baijnath, Paprola, Palampur, and Shimla railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana. He acknowledged the central government’s support in funding key railway projects such as the Bhanupalli–Bilaspur–Beri railway line and the Chandigarh–Baddi broad gauge railway line.
Dr. Bhardwaj’s appeal underscores the growing demand for enhanced rail connectivity in Himachal Pradesh, which could significantly boost tourism and regional development.
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