Final Location Survey completed for proposed Rangpo-Gangtok railway line

sanjay Agarwal

RANGPO, January :  The Indian Railways have successfully completed the Final Location Survey (FLS) for the proposed railway line from Rangpo to Gangtok in Sikkim. The survey report has been submitted to the Railway Board for approval, marking a crucial milestone in the expansion of railway connectivity to the Himalayan State.

Once the approval is granted, tenders will be floated, and construction work will begin as part of the second phase of the ambitious Sevoke-Gangtok rail link project.

The Rangpo-Gangtok rail stretch is expected to cover a total distance of 34.7 km, facilitating better connectivity and boosting economic development in the region. Officials have confirmed that the Sevoke-Rangpo section, which forms the first phase of the project, is already under construction and is expected to be completed by December 2026.

This 44.96 km section features extensive tunneling work, with 41.55 km of the route passing through West Bengal and the remaining 3.4 km in Sikkim. The section comprises 14 tunnels, 13 bridges, and 5 stations, namely Sevoke, Riyang, Teesta Bazar, Melli, and Rangpo.

Over 92% of the Sevoke-Rangpo section involves tunneling, totalling 38.5 km, which presents significant engineering challenges. However, modern tunneling technologies have been adopted to ensure structural stability and facilitate train speeds of up to 100 kmph.

Despite the initial project sanctioning in 2008-09, progress was hampered by environmental concerns, as the route passes through the ecologically sensitive Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. The Covid-19 pandemic further delayed the timeline, pushing the project's anticipated completion date from 2023 to 2026.

Once operational, the Sevoke-Gangtok rail link will provide a major boost to tourism and trade, enhancing connectivity for both passengers and freight. Currently, Sikkim remains the only Northeastern State without direct rail connectivity, making this project highly anticipated by locals and businesses alike.

Authorities are optimistic that the Rangpo-Gangtok stretch will receive swift approval, paving the way for construction to begin soon. The Indian Railways continues to prioritize the project, aiming to enhance connectivity in the region while ensuring minimal environmental impact through sustainable construction practices.