Railway passengers in the Kumaon region have received a major connectivity boost as the Ministry of Railways has officially approved a new stop for the Achhnera-Tanakpur Express (train numbers 15093/15094) at Banbasa Railway Station. This decision, aimed at improving regional accessibility, follows a formal request submitted by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on July 8, 2026. The Railway Ministry, under the leadership of Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, granted the necessary approvals on August 5 and 6, 2026, prioritizing the convenience of local commuters and pilgrims.
Key details regarding this development include:
- Train numbers 15093/15094 will now observe a scheduled halt at Banbasa Railway Station.
- The decision was finalized following an official request by Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami.
- The move is expected to serve residents, students, military families, and pilgrims in the Champawat district.
- Officials have highlighted that this halt will provide a significant push to local trade, tourism, and economic activity.
Enhanced Connectivity for the Kumaon Region
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their prompt action on this matter. According to the state government, this new stoppage addresses a long-standing demand from the local population. By integrating Banbasa into the route of the Achhnera-Tanakpur Express, the railways are effectively bridging the gap between remote border areas and major transit hubs, ensuring that military families and residents have more reliable transport options.
Boosting Regional Development
Manish Kumar, the District Magistrate of Champawat, welcomed the announcement, describing it as a vital step toward the holistic development of the region. The inclusion of Banbasa station in the train’s itinerary is expected to simplify travel for those commuting for education and business purposes. Furthermore, the easier accessibility is likely to encourage tourism in the border areas, which remains a key focus for the district administration. Passengers are advised to check the updated schedules via the official IRCTC website or the NTES app before planning their journeys, as the new stoppage is implemented to streamline regional rail travel.