₹1.31 Lakh Crore Vision: The Future of Himalayan Railways Revealed

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha on December 17, 2025, that the survey for converting the 200-kilometre Pathankot–Jogindernagar narrow-gauge railway line into a broad-gauge line has been completed.

The minister said that a detailed project report (DPR) for the conversion is currently under preparation. Responding to a query from Kangra MP Rajeev Bhardwaj, he noted that a survey of the 57-kilometre Jogindernagar railway stretch was also conducted; however, the traffic potential on this section was found to be low.

Vaishnaw further highlighted the proposed Bilaspur–Manali–Leh railway line as a project of strategic importance, identified by the Ministry of Defence. The survey for this project has been completed and the DPR has already been prepared. The estimated cost of the project is ₹1.31 lakh crore and involves the construction of a 489-kilometre-long railway line, of which approximately 270 kilometres will run through tunnels.

These projects reflect Indian Railways’ continued focus on improving connectivity and enhancing strategic infrastructure in the region.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.