The meeting focused on ongoing rail projects and future railway needs in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening railway connectivity to boost the state’s development, tourism, pilgrimage, investment, and local economy.
Highlighting the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project as one of Uttarakhand’s most ambitious and strategically important initiatives, Dhami urged for its completion within the stipulated timeline. He noted that the project would improve travel convenience, safety, and modernity for pilgrims and tourists visiting key Char Dham shrines, including Shri Badrinath and Shri Kedarnath.
Discussions also covered the advancement of the Tanakpur-Bageshwar Rail Project. The Railway Board Chairman informed that the survey and Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this project have been completed. The Chief Minister expressed hope for substantial progress by November 2026.
Additionally, Dhami called for expedited action on the Karnaprayag-Bageshwar and Kichha-Khatima rail line projects, stressing their significance for future demand and balanced regional development.
Recognizing the growing potential of pilgrimage and tourism, the Chief Minister stressed upgrading railway stations across the state with modern facilities. Key stations mentioned included Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Roorkee in the Garhwal region, and Haldwani, Kathgodam, Ramnagar, and Tanakpur in the Kumaon region.
Ahead of major events like the Kumbh Mela and Kanwar Mela, special facilities are planned at Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Roorkee stations to better serve pilgrims and passengers. Dhami highlighted cooperation between the Railways and state government to ensure safer and more comfortable travel.
The meeting also underscored the need to expedite doubling the Haridwar-Dehradun railway line. Expanding and modernizing the rail network is expected to create opportunities for investment, trade, tourism, and employment, strengthening Uttarakhand’s long-term economic prospects.
Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar assured that all issues discussed would be pursued with seriousness and necessary actions would be taken.
