Pathankot–Joginder Nagar Rail Broad Gauge Project Gets Major Boost as DPR Approved

 BJP MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj raised the issue of converting the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar narrow-gauge railway line, crucial for Himachal Pradesh, to broad gauge in the Lok Sabha. He sought information from the central government regarding traffic studies, surveys, assignments to private or professional agencies, and the project’s future course of action.

In a written reply to unstarred question number 612 of Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnav informed that the existing Pathankot-Joginder Nagar narrow gauge section is about 200 km long and approval has been given to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for survey of its gauge conversion.

The Union Minister stated that a professional agency has been appointed for this important task. Regional surveys and traffic studies have been completed, and the process of preparing the DPR has now begun. This marks significant progress in advancing the potential for gauge conversion of the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar section.

Member of Parliament Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj said that the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar railway line is a historically and strategically important rail link for Himachal Pradesh, especially the Kangra region. Modernization of this section will enhance the prospects for improved rail connectivity in the region in the future. He said that the initiation of the DPR process is an important step toward advancing this long-standing demand.

He said that given Himachal Pradesh’s difficult geographical conditions, a strong rail network can play a vital role in the state’s development. Improved rail connectivity is expected to facilitate local mobility and boost tourism and regional economic activities.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav also clarified in his response that after the DPR is prepared, the project will undergo a process of consultation with various stakeholders, including the relevant state governments, and necessary approvals from relevant levels such as NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance. Since stakeholder consultations are an ongoing and dynamic process, no fixed timeline can be set for the project at this time.

Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj stated that he would continue to raise issues related to rail expansion and improved connectivity in Himachal Pradesh with the central government. He expressed his gratitude to the central government and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav for approving the DPR process and advancing the survey for the gauge conversion of the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar section.