Business leaders in Rajkot have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Indian Railways for its failure to implement promised train extensions, nearly two years after a formal announcement was made. The delay is impacting long-distance connectivity from the key Saurashtra city.
Unfulfilled Promises from 2023
The controversy centers on an announcement made by former minister of state for railways, Darshana Jardosh, who had declared the extension of six major trains originating from Ahmedabad up to Rajkot. This announcement was made in 2023, but according to the Rajkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), no concrete steps have been taken since.
During a meeting of the Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee (DRUCC) held on Wednesday, the RCCI formally raised the issue. In a written representation submitted to divisional railway manager Giriraj Kumar Meena, the chamber highlighted the lack of progress.
Key Trains Awaiting Extension
The chamber listed the specific trains whose extension remains pending. These are crucial long-distance services that would significantly improve Rajkot's direct connectivity to major Indian cities.
- Ahmedabad–Patna train
- Ahmedabad–Prayagraj train
- Ahmedabad–Kolkata train
- Ahmedabad–Kolhapur train
- Ahmedabad–Nagpur train
- Gujarat Sampark Kranti Express
Furthermore, the RCCI pointed out that another proposal to extend the Ahmedabad–Pune Duronto Express to Rajkot, announced by the railway ministry, has also remained only on paper.
Additional Demands for Better Service
Beyond the stalled extensions, the business body presented other demands to improve rail services for Rajkot's passengers. A primary concern is the scheduling of Mumbai-bound trains.
The chamber urged the railways to restore the Saurashtra Mail to its original departure time of 6.30 pm. Currently, there is only a 30-minute gap between the departures of the Saurashtra Janta Express and the Saurashtra Mail, causing inconvenience to travelers.
Looking to the future, the RCCI also demanded the introduction of a modern Vande Bharat sleeper train between Rajkot and Mumbai. This, they argued, would greatly strengthen long-distance rail connectivity for the entire Saurashtra region.
Railway Administration's Response
Parth Ganatra, vice-president of RCCI, stated that railway officials, including the divisional railway manager, responded positively during the meeting. They assured the chamber that the representation would be forwarded to the Railway Board for consideration.
The business community now awaits action from the higher authorities, hoping that the promises made two years ago will finally be converted into tangible improvements in Rajkot's rail infrastructure.
