Centre Approves Sikkim's Rs 2.25 Crore Melli-Dentam Railway Line

The Railway Ministry has granted approval for the final location survey of a new railway line in Sikkim, connecting Melli to Dentam via Jorethang and Legship. This survey, to be executed by Northeast Frontier Railway, has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 2.25 crore. This decision marks a significant step in enhancing rail connectivity to the southern and western regions of Sikkim.

The proposed railway route aims to address a critical infrastructure gap by linking remote towns like Dentam, located near the India-Nepal border at Chiwabhanjyang, with the national railway network. The new line, which was initially estimated to be around 75 km in length during the feasibility study, will serve as an important extension of the ongoing Sivok-Rangpo railway project, which is expected to be operational by 2027.

Melli, a crucial entry point to southern and western Sikkim, will likely serve as a junction for the proposed railway extension, which will ensure seamless integration of the region into the national transportation system. The final location survey will help provide detailed insights into the technical and feasibility aspects of the project, guiding decisions on the final alignment, engineering design, and cost estimation.

The new connectivity project is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth, particularly in the Gyalshing area and surrounding regions, by enhancing access, promoting tourism, boosting trade, and creating employment opportunities. The project aims to foster regional development and make the region more connected with the national transportation network, thereby offering a boost to the local economy.

Moreover, the work tenders associated with the execution of the survey are expected to be floated soon, signaling the start of the survey process. This is seen as a positive step forward in the development of rail infrastructure in the region and will play a key role in enhancing connectivity in the state of Sikkim.

The approval of the final location survey represents a critical move toward improving infrastructure in one of the most remote regions of India. It also contributes to the broader national goal of expanding rail connectivity and improving access to various parts of the country, especially those that are otherwise difficult to reach due to geographical challenges. The railway line is expected to boost overall regional development, supporting both the socio-economic growth and the integration of Sikkim into the national mainstream.

Once the survey is completed, the detailed planning and engineering work will follow, bringing the project closer to realization. With the growing demand for improved connectivity and the increasing importance of Sikkim as a strategic region, this railway line will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in transforming the state's infrastructure landscape.