Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday flagged off the new Bikaner (Lalgarh)-Ahmedabad (Sabarmati) special train from Bikaner, stating that the service would strengthen rail connectivity and boost economic activity in the region. The inaugural event was held at Bikaner railway station, with Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also present.
Enhanced Connectivity for Rajasthan and Gujarat
Addressing the function, Vaishnaw noted that there had been a long-standing demand for better rail connectivity in the area. The new train service, he said, would benefit passengers from Bikaner and adjoining districts, supporting trade, tourism, and economic activities while making travel between cities easier and more convenient. Railway officials confirmed that the service would benefit passengers in Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Patan, and Banaskantha districts of Gujarat, as well as Jalore, Balotra, Jodhpur, Nagaur, and Bikaner districts of Rajasthan.
Massive Railway Investments in Rajasthan
Vaishnaw highlighted that railway projects worth more than Rs 76,800 crore were currently underway in Rajasthan. He also mentioned that over 1,300 railway stations were being redeveloped across the country under the Amrit Station Scheme. "Redevelopment works at Bikaner, Lalgarh, Nokha, Sadulpur, Churu, and Ratangarh stations are progressing rapidly," he added. The minister emphasized that station redevelopment projects in Rajasthan were being carried out in line with local art and culture.
Ongoing Projects and New Train Services
Projects related to new railway lines, doubling, and gauge conversion are in progress in the state and will facilitate the operation of additional train services upon completion. Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals are also being developed to support industry and trade. The minister noted that several new trains, including Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and other express services, have been introduced in recent years from Bikaner, Jodhpur, Ajmer, and Jaipur. Referring to a proposed train service between Bikaner and Chandigarh, Vaishnaw said railway officials had been directed to finalize the route so that operations could begin at the earliest.
Border Area Development and High-Speed Rail
"Railway line construction works in border areas are being undertaken on priority and would be completed in a phased manner," said the Union Minister. Speaking on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project, Vaishnaw stated that it was expected to commence operations in 2027. He also said that the railway budget allocation for Rajasthan had increased significantly under the Narendra Modi government, adding that the Centre was focused on development.
