Himachal Pradesh Enhances Rail Connectivity with New Train Service Launch

A new narrow gauge train service was inaugurated in Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant enhancement in rail connectivity. Former Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur emphasized the government's commitment to improving travel and tourism in the region. The service's revival is expected to create job opportunities and strengthen the local economy. With substantial funding allocated for rail expansion, the event was celebrated by local leaders and railway officials, highlighting a new chapter in Himachal's development. This initiative promises to fulfill long-standing aspirations for better connectivity in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 2, 2026, 11:44 IST

New Train Service Launched in Himachal Pradesh

TNR News Network
Kangra

Today marked a significant advancement in rail connectivity for Himachal Pradesh as former Union Minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Singh Thakur, alongside Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Rajeev Bhardwaj, inaugurated the narrow gauge train service at Kangra Railway Station.

The event saw the presence of Kangra MLA Pawan Kajal, MLA Thakur Ranbir Singh Nikka, and Northern Railway DRM Vivek Kumar, along with railway officials and staff who played a crucial role in organizing the ceremony.

During his address, Anurag Singh Thakur highlighted the Modi government's commitment to enhancing rail connectivity throughout Himachal. He stated that the revival of the narrow gauge service is expected to boost tourism in the Kangra-Dharamshala region, facilitate local travel, and generate new job opportunities.

Thakur reminisced about the challenges faced in August 2022 when floods destroyed the Chakki River railway bridge at the Himachal–Punjab border. He pointed out that the ₹70 crore reconstruction of the bridge, utilizing modern technology, was promptly executed by the Railways following strong advocacy to the central government. He expressed optimism that the resumption of services would invigorate tourism and the local economy, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their assistance.

He also revealed that the Union Budget for 2026–27 has allocated ₹2911 crore for the expansion, modernization, safety projects, and electrification of railways in Himachal—a figure 27 times greater than previous allocations. Currently, projects worth ₹17,711 crore are in progress, including the redevelopment of four stations under the Amrit Bharat scheme at a cost of ₹46 crore.

Dr. Rajeev Bhardwaj commented that enhancing rail networks in a mountainous state signifies a new era of development for Himachal.

The launch event was filled with enthusiastic chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Jai BJP, Tay BJP”, echoing throughout the station.

MLA Pawan Kajal expressed his appreciation, describing the launch as the realization of a long-held aspiration for Kangra. He stated, “This train will elevate tourism, trade, and employment. This is a gift from the double-engine government.”