 |
| Connecting Sikkim: The Inauguration of Rangpo Railway Station [Source: Times Of India] |
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently initiated the foundation stone-laying ceremony for Sikkim's inaugural railway station at Rangpo, marking a significant milestone in the state's infrastructure development. This station, envisaged to echo the cultural essence and architectural marvels of the Himalayan region, is part of a larger endeavor encompassing over 2,000 railway projects valued at approximately Rs 41,000 crore.
The establishment of the Rangpo railway station holds profound significance for Sikkim, a sentiment underscored by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya during the ceremony held in Khanikola, Rangpo. It aligns with the vision of 'Viksit Bharat@2047' and promises to invigorate the tourism sector by facilitating seamless and expedient travel experiences.
One of the station's pivotal advantages is its resilience during the monsoon season, when disruptions along the NH-10 are commonplace. The railway infrastructure is poised to alleviate such challenges, augmenting connectivity and reliability for the populace.
Forming part of the ongoing 45-km rail corridor from Sevoke near Siliguri to Rangpo in Sikkim, the project entails the construction of 14 tunnels and 22 bridges, with stations at Riyang, Teesta Bazar, and Melli. Notably, the Teesta Bazar station will be subterranean.
Initially awarded to IRCON International in May 2010 at a cost of Rs 4,084.69 crore, the Sevoke-Rangpo rail project has encountered delays, necessitating a revised completion date of December 2024 and an adjusted budget of Rs 12,474.07 crore.
The inauguration of the Rangpo railway station heralds a new era for Sikkim, ushering in railway connectivity as the third mode of transportation alongside air travel and roadways. The project unfolds in three phases, with the subsequent phases aiming to extend the railway line to Gangtok and eventually Nathula.
Despite grappling with formidable challenges, including the excavation of tunnels through rocky terrains, the project has made substantial headway, with completion anticipated by 2025. Track installation is slated to commence imminently, signaling progress amidst adversities such as floods and landslides.
The Rangpo railway station epitomizes Sikkim's march towards comprehensive connectivity and economic advancement, epitomizing the aspirations of a vibrant and forward-looking nation.