AAP MP Demands Urgent Railway Connectivity for Punjab's Isolated Hubs
In a significant parliamentary intervention, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament Malvinder Singh Kang has issued a compelling appeal to the central government, urging it to address critical deficiencies in Punjab's railway infrastructure. Participating in a Lok Sabha discussion on railway grants, Kang emphasized the pressing need to connect two major regional hubs and restore services that were disrupted during the pandemic, highlighting both religious and economic imperatives.
Key Constituencies Remain Off the National Rail Grid
Kang pointed out that crucial constituencies under the Anandpur Sahib parliamentary segment—specifically Chamkaur Sahib and Balachaur—are entirely isolated from the national railway network. This lack of connectivity not only impedes daily commutes but also stifles local development and access to broader economic opportunities. The MP formally requested immediate rail connectivity for these areas to integrate them into the national grid, arguing that such a move is essential for regional progress.
Religious and Historical Significance Underscored
Emphasizing the immense historical and religious importance of Sri Chamkaur Sahib, Kang noted that this site attracts millions of devotees annually. The absence of a rail link severely hampers pilgrimage activities, making travel cumbersome and less accessible for worshippers. He stressed that connecting these hubs would not only facilitate religious tourism but also spur local economic growth by improving accessibility and boosting commerce.
Call for Enhanced Pilgrimage Connectivity
Kang also advocated for daily superfast train services to link the three major Sikh Takhts—Kesgarh Sahib, Hazoor Sahib, and Patna Sahib. He highlighted that the cancellation of direct flights has left many pilgrims stranded, exacerbating travel difficulties. Additionally, he called for the reopening of Chatouli station, which has remained closed since the Covid-19 lockdowns, to restore vital local transport options.
Infrastructure Bottlenecks and Development Delays
While expressing gratitude for the "world-class" redevelopment of Anandpur Sahib station under the Amrit Bharat scheme, Kang flagged significant local delays in infrastructure projects. He pressed the railway ministry to expedite four overbridge projects in the Ropar district, citing severe traffic congestion caused by their slow progress. These bottlenecks, he argued, are hindering daily life and economic activities in the region.
Support for Emerging Tech Sector
In a forward-looking move, Kang welcomed the ₹900 crore semiconductor laboratory project planned for Mohali, recognizing its potential to boost Punjab's emerging technology sector. He suggested that improved rail logistics would be vital to supporting this initiative, ensuring efficient transport of materials and personnel, and fostering innovation-driven growth in the state.
Overall, Kang's demands underscore a multifaceted approach to enhancing Punjab's railway network, blending religious connectivity, economic development, and infrastructure modernization to address long-standing gaps and propel the state forward.
