Sikkim rail project advances towards completion with 14 tunnels

sanjay Agarwal

RANGPO,: The Sivok-Rangpo rail project, a crucial infrastructural development, is set to revolutionize connectivity for Sikkim by providing an alternative route to the often-unstable National Highway 10. This strategic rail link aims to enhance the integration of Sikkim with the rest of India, fostering economic growth and improving accessibility to this Northeastern State.

The Sikkim rail project from Sivok near Siliguri to the border town Rangpo stretches over 45 km and includes significant engineering feats such as 14 tunnels, 17 major bridges, and five stations. Among these stations is an underground one at Teesta Bazaar in Kalimpong district, marking a notable achievement in Indian rail infrastructure. The project, initially estimated at Rs 4,085 crore in 2015, has seen its budget revised to approximately Rs 12,132.95 crore.

Key milestones in the project include the completion of all tunnel mining activities, with a substantial 13.13 km of tunnel lining finished. The lining work continues in several tunnels, specifically T-02, T-03, T-05, T-06, T-07, T-10, T-11, and T-12. This progress underscores the project's momentum towards its new deadline of August 2025.

The SRRP is not merely a transportation project but a lifeline for Sikkim, promising to provide a reliable and permanent alternative to NH 10. The highway has been plagued with maintenance issues, frequently disrupted by landslides and other natural calamities, thereby affecting the movement of people and goods. The rail link is expected to mitigate these issues, ensuring stable connectivity.

Once completed, the rail network will significantly boost Sikkim's economy by facilitating smoother movement of goods and tourists. Enhanced connectivity is likely to attract more investments, promote trade, and contribute to the overall development of the region. The project will also provide residents with more reliable travel options, improving their quality of life.

The Indian Railways' commitment to completing the project by the revised deadline of August 2025 reflects a strong determination to overcome these hurdles.

The Sivok-Rangpo rail project represents a transformative development for Sikkim. By providing a robust alternative to NH 10, it is poised to enhance the State's connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall well-being of its residents.

As the project advances towards its completion, it stands as a testament to the potential of strategic infrastructure investments in bridging regional disparities and fostering national integration. The Indian Railways shall extend their service from Rangpo to Gangtok in 2nd stage and proposes to extend the rail connectivity up to the Indo-China border at Nathu La.