The Union Government has officially sanctioned a detailed estimate of Rs 1,419.05 crore for the construction of a new 39.68-kilometer broad-gauge railway line connecting Qadian in Gurdaspur district to Beas in Amritsar. Announced by former Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, this infrastructure project aims to transform regional connectivity and economic development across Punjab’s Majha region.
Key highlights of the new rail corridor include:
- Project cost: Rs 1,419.05 crore
- Total length: 39.68 kilometers
- Key connectivity points: Dhapai, Ghuman, Butala, and Sathiala
- Safety and infrastructure: 11 major bridges, 121 minor bridges, 54 road under-bridges, and the Kavach train collision avoidance system
A Long Awaited Infrastructure Milestone
The project holds historical significance, as it was originally conceptualized way back in 1928. After facing nearly a century of delays attributed to land acquisition challenges and alignment disputes, the initiative has finally been revived under the government’s socially desirable rail connectivity program. This new line will feature modern signaling and telecommunications, ensuring that the route meets contemporary safety and efficiency standards.
Boosting Economy and Religious Tourism
Beyond its function as a transport artery, the new line is expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy. Farmers and small-scale industries will benefit from improved logistics, facilitating easier movement of goods. Furthermore, the route is designed to promote religious tourism by connecting prominent spiritual destinations, including the Qadian Ahmadiyya headquarters, the Dera Baba Jaimal Singh in Beas, and Gurdwara Bhagat Namdev Ji in Ghuman.
Strategically, the line will serve as a vital alternative corridor to the existing Amritsar-Pathankot section. By providing this additional route, the Indian Railways will have greater flexibility to manage traffic during emergencies or maintenance work, ensuring smoother operations across the rail network in Punjab.