In a landmark move, Indian Railways has unveiled an ambitious Rs 1.31 lakh crore project aimed at improving connectivity to Kargil and other strategic regions in Ladakh. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the details of the project during a session in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing its significance for both national security and regional development.
The centerpiece of this initiative is the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway line, a 489-kilometer high-altitude rail corridor identified as a strategic line by the Ministry of Defence. The project, which partly falls within the Union Territory of Ladakh, is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing logistical support to geopolitically sensitive areas, including Kargil.
Vaishnaw confirmed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh line has been finalized, and the survey for the project has been completed. The railway line will traverse challenging terrains, including the Shivalik, Great Himalayan, and Zanskar ranges, with altitudes ranging from 600 meters to 5,300 meters above sea level. The route will feature 40 stations and over 270 kilometers of tunnels, making it one of the most complex railway projects in India.
The project is expected to bolster connectivity between key towns such as Sundernagar, Mandi, Manali, Keylong, and Leh, facilitating smoother transportation of goods and passengers. It will also serve as a critical link for defense operations in the region.
This initiative marks a significant step toward integrating remote regions with the rest of the country, fostering economic growth and improving access to essential services. The government’s commitment to this project underscores its focus on strategic infrastructure development in Ladakh and other border areas.
Stay tuned for further updates as Indian Railways progresses with this transformative project.
