Khanna meets Bittu over proposed rail connectivity
Rajya Sabha former MP Avinash Rai Khanna met Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu on July 9, 2026, and advocated for a direct railway connection between the historic religious cities of Sri Anandpur Sahib and Amritsar. Khanna emphasized that the project would greatly improve convenience for pilgrims and stimulate regional development.
Religious significance highlighted
During the meeting, Khanna underlined the immense religious and historical importance of both cities. He noted that Sri Anandpur Sahib houses Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Gurdwara Sri Sis Ganj Sahib, Gurdwara Sri Kiratpur Sahib and Gurdwara Baba Gurditta Ji, while Amritsar is home to Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) and Sri Durgiana Temple. Connecting these major pilgrimage centers by rail would benefit devotees traveling from across the country, he added.
Previous efforts and survey
Khanna recalled raising the issue during his tenure as a Member of Parliament, following which a survey for the proposed rail link was conducted. He suggested extending the existing railway line from Garhshankar to Sri Anandpur Sahib, which would enable direct rail connectivity between the two cities.
Economic and tourism boost
The proposed rail link would not only improve accessibility for pilgrims but also strengthen tourism, trade, and economic activities between the two regions, Khanna stated. Responding to the proposal, Bittu assured Khanna that he would take up the matter with the Central Government and expedite necessary action on the project.
