Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Sikkim's maiden railway station project at Rangpo on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the state's infrastructure development.
This initiative was part of the unveiling of over 2,000 rail infrastructure projects worth approximately Rs 41,000 crore by the Prime Minister today.
During the virtual address, PM Modi highlighted that the design of the Rangpo railway station would be inspired by Sikkim's rich culture, heritage, and architecture.
Sikkim Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, present at the event in Rangpo, emphasised the historical significance of the project, stressing its potential to bolster tourism and enhance connectivity in the region.
"The foundation stone laying for the Rangpo railway station is a historic and proud moment for Sikkim, underscoring its significance in the context of 'Viksit Bharat@2047' and its potential to enhance the tourism sector by offering expedited and convenient travel options," Acharya said.
The proposed 45-km rail line from Sevoke near Siliguri in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim will feature 14 tunnels and 22 bridges.
It is part of the Northeast Frontier Railway's Sevoke-Rangpo section, designed to handle 25-ton trains with a maximum speed of 110 kmph.
Additionally, three stations—Riyang, Teesta, and Melli—will be established between Sevoke and Rangpo, all situated in West Bengal.
The project, initially awarded to IRCON International in May 2010 with a budget of Rs 4,084.69 crore and an original deadline of May 2015, has undergone revisions.
The current estimated completion date is December 2024, with a revised cost of Rs 12,474.07 crore.
The inauguration of the Rangpo railway station represents a significant stride towards bolstering transportation infrastructure in Sikkim, promising enhanced connectivity and economic opportunities for the region.
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