New Delhi: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to introduce a Vande Bharat or superfast express train service between Mumbai and Dehradun and increase the frequency of existing railway services connecting Mumbai with Haridwar and Ramnagar.
During a meeting in New Delhi, the Chief Minister discussed several key issues related to strengthening railway infrastructure, expanding connectivity, and accelerating important rail projects in Uttarakhand.
CM Dhami highlighted that improved rail connectivity is essential considering the growing number of pilgrims and tourists visiting the state for religious, cultural, and natural attractions.
Focus on Rail Infrastructure Expansion in Uttarakhand
CM Dhami said Uttarakhand holds a significant position due to destinations such as:
- Char Dham pilgrimage sites
- Haridwar and Rishikesh religious centres
- Yoga and spiritual tourism destinations
- Upcoming Kumbh Mela 2027
Millions of devotees and tourists from India and abroad visit Uttarakhand every year. The Chief Minister emphasized that expanding a modern railway network is necessary to meet the increasing demand for transportation.
Demand for Mumbai-Dehradun Vande Bharat Service
During the meeting, CM Dhami informed the Railway Minister that a large number of people from Uttarakhand reside and work in Mumbai, leading to frequent travel between the two regions.
He requested the launch of:
- Mumbai-Dehradun Vande Bharat or superfast express service
- Increased frequency of Mumbai-Haridwar railway service
- Increased frequency of Mumbai-Ramnagar railway service
The Chief Minister said these measures would provide better travel facilities for tourists, pilgrims, and people from Uttarakhand living in Maharashtra.
Proposal to Extend Dehradun-Kota Train Up to Mumbai
CM Dhami also requested the extension of the Dehradun-Kota railway service up to:
- Surat
- Vadodara
- Mumbai
He suggested that Mumbai-Ramnagar and Mumbai-Haridwar train services should either operate regularly or at least run three days a week to meet passenger requirements.
Rishikesh Railway Land Transfer for Ganga Corridor Project
The Chief Minister requested the transfer of land of the old Rishikesh railway station to the Uttarakhand government for the development of the Rishikesh Ganga Corridor.
He informed that work is being carried out under a proposed project involving:
- Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board (UIIDB)
- Government of Uttarakhand
- Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA)
The project aims to support asset monetisation and comprehensive master planning of the Rishikesh Ganga Corridor.
CM Dhami requested necessary directions to RLDA for further progress.
Progress of Key Railway Projects in Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister raised several important railway projects during the discussion, including:
Kichha-Sitarganj-Khatima New Railway Line
CM Dhami requested that the complete cost of the project should be borne by the Government of India.
He also sought resolution of concerns raised by local farmers regarding the survey process.
Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Project
The Chief Minister requested the early commencement of railway operations under this strategically important project.
Banbasa Railway Station Gets In-Principle Approval for Train Stops
CM Dhami requested short halts for major trains at Banbasa railway station, including:
- Triveni Express
- Mathura Express
- Daurai Express
He highlighted that Banbasa is strategically important due to its location near the India-Nepal border and its role as a trade centre.
The station is also significant due to the presence of an Indian Army Rajput Regiment unit in the area.
Following the request, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw gave in-principle approval for providing halts at Banbasa station.
Doubling of Haridwar-Dehradun Rail Line and Station Development
CM Dhami requested early completion of pending work related to the Haridwar-Dehradun railway line doubling project, particularly the section between Raiwala and Dehradun.
He also requested beautification and expansion of major railway stations, including:
- Haridwar
- Harrawala
- Dehradun
- Khatima
- Laksar
- Roorkee
- Tanakpur
- Banbasa
These improvements are expected to enhance passenger facilities and support tourism growth.
Request to Reopen Railway Crossing Between Khatima-Majhola-Pilibhit
The Chief Minister also raised the issue of reopening Railway Gate No. 18C between Khatima and Majhola-Pilibhit.
He said the closure of the railway crossing has created difficulties for:
- Local villagers
- Farmers
- Tourists
Restoring the crossing would improve movement and connectivity for nearby communities.
Railway Minister Assures Positive Consideration
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured CM Pushkar Singh Dhami that the proposals presented by the Uttarakhand government would be considered positively.
The discussions are expected to support faster development of railway infrastructure, improved passenger connectivity, and better transportation facilities in Uttarakhand, especially ahead of major tourism events such as Kumbh 2027.
Uttarakhand’s Push for Better Connectivity
The Uttarakhand government is focusing on strengthening transport infrastructure to support tourism, pilgrimage, trade, and regional development. Improved railway connectivity is considered a key factor in making travel easier while boosting economic growth across the Himalayan state.
