DHARAMSALA: Kangra Parliamentary constituency MP Dr. Rajiv Bhardwaj voiced his concerns over the lack of broad-gauge railway connectivity in Kangra district while speaking on the Railway Amendment Bill in Parliament on Wednesday. Expressing his disappointment, Dr. Bhardwaj highlighted the pressing need to extend rail infrastructure in the region, emphasizing its cultural and tourist significance.
Dr. Bhardwaj drew attention to the four revered shrines of Kangra—Maa Chintpurni, Maa Jwala, Maa Brijeshwari, and Maa Chamunda—stating that they await the arrival of the Vande Bharat Express. He acknowledged the efforts of former minister Anurag Thakur in facilitating the train's extension to Andora (Una, Himachal Pradesh) and urged for its further expansion to Kangra. "Only one mountain stands between the Vande Bharat Express and these sacred sites, " he remarked.
Highlighting Dharamshala as an international tourist destination, home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Bhagsunag Temple, and Dal Lake, Dr. Bhardwaj stressed the importance of enhancing connectivity. "Tourists should be able to reach Dharamshala comfortably aboard the Vande Bharat Express, " he added.
Dr. Bhardwaj also pointed out the limitations of the narrow-gauge train operating between Pathankot and Joginder Nagar, which often halts during the rainy season. He informed the House that he had previously raised the demand to convert this route into a broad-gauge line, following which the Railway Minister has ordered a final physical survey. He expressed gratitude to the Minister for the initiative and hoped for prompt implementation.
Extending his vision for Chamba district, Dr. Bhardwaj called for railway connectivity to tourist attractions like Dalhousie and Khajjiar, often referred to as "Mini Switzerland." He expressed optimism that provisions for these projects would be included in the upcoming railway budget, citing the region's unique heritage, including the famed Chamba Rumal and Chamba Thal.
Dr. Bhardwaj concluded by recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s deep connection with Himachal Pradesh, which he considers his second home. "Kangra-Chamba is close to the Prime Minister's heart, and it is imperative that this region does not lag behind in rail development, " he said.
The MP’s passionate appeal reflects the aspirations of the people of Himachal Pradesh and underscores the importance of infrastructure development in promoting regional growth and tourism