New Rail Link for Uttarakhand-UP: Saharanpur-Dehradun

On July 25, 2025, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Rajya Sabha that a survey has been sanctioned for a proposed 81-km railway line from Saharanpur to Dehradun via Shakumbhari Devi. However, he clarified that no timeline has been set for the project's completion.

In a written reply, the Minister stated that the survey is currently in progress to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR). He noted that railway projects are prioritized based on multiple criteria, including financial viability, traffic forecasts, last-mile connectivity, filling infrastructure gaps, easing congestion, and overall socio-economic impact.

The proposed line is presently in the consultation phase, with input being gathered from stakeholders, including state governments. Before construction can commence, the project will require approvals from NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance. These approvals are contingent on factors such as fund availability, existing project commitments, and competing infrastructure priorities.

Once executed, the new line is expected to enhance regional connectivity between Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, support religious tourism, and strengthen the broader transportation network. Final implementation will depend on securing the necessary clearances and funding alignment.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.