Explore the inauguration of Rangpo, Sikkim’s first railway station, initiated by PM Modi, marking a significant milestone. Know all the key details about the Rangpo railway stations.
About Rangpo – Sikkim’s First Railway Station
In a historic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for Sikkim’s first railway station at Rangpo, marking a significant milestone in the state’s connectivity and development. The initiative is part of a grand plan encompassing over 2,000 rail infrastructure projects, totaling around ₹41,000 crore.
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Unveiling Sikkim’s Heritage
During his address via video conference, PM Modi highlighted that the design of the Rangpo railway station will draw inspiration from Sikkim’s rich culture, heritage, and architecture. This thoughtful approach aims to integrate modern infrastructure with the essence of the state’s identity.
Strategic Advantages for Sikkim
Sikkim Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, present at the event in Khanikola, emphasized the project’s significance in the broader context of ‘Viksit Bharat@2047.‘ He highlighted the railway’s potential to boost the tourism sector by providing expedited and convenient travel options.
Monsoon Resilience
Acharya underscored the advantages of the railway during the challenging monsoon season, especially when disruptions occur on NH-10. The railway is poised to enhance connectivity and reliability during such times, serving as a crucial lifeline for the region.
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Project Overview
The Rangpo railway station is part of a larger 45-km rail line under construction, connecting Sevoke near Siliguri in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim.
The project, managed by IRCON International, involves the construction of 14 tunnels and 22 bridges.
The track’s capacity to handle 25 tons and the train’s maximum speed of 110 kmph is indicative of its robust design.
Key Stations and Underground Marvel
The Sevoke-Rangpo section will feature three stations between Sevoke and Rangpo – Riyang, Teesta Bazar, and Melli, all situated in West Bengal.
Notably, the Teesta Bazar station will be an underground marvel, showcasing innovative engineering in line with the project’s vision.
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Timeline and Costs
Initiated in May 2010 at a cost of ₹4,084.69 crore, the project’s original deadline was May 2015. However, with revised plans, the completion date is now set for December 2024, accompanied by a revised cost of ₹12,474.07 crore.
Phase of the Project
The government has divided the project into three distinct phases. The initial phase involves the Sevoke to Rangpo rail project, followed by the second phase covering Rangpo to Gangtok. The third and final phase encompasses the stretch from Gangtok to Nathula.
This transformative project holds the promise of reshaping Sikkim’s landscape, ushering in an era of enhanced connectivity, tourism, and overall development.
Summary of Sikkim’s First Railway Station
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Sikkim’s First Railway Station at Rangpo |
| Initiator | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Total Rail Projects Unveiled | Over 2,000 infrastructure projects worth ₹41,000 crore |
| Design Inspiration | Draws from Sikkim’s rich culture, heritage, and architecture |
| Event Location | Khanikola in Rangpo, Sikkim |
| Significance | Historic moment for Sikkim, aligning with ‘Viksit Bharat@2047,’ potential to boost tourism |
| Monsoon Resilience | Enhances connectivity and reliability during monsoons, providing an alternative to disruptions on NH-10 |
| Rail Line Overview | 45-km rail line from Sevoke (West Bengal) to Rangpo (Sikkim) with 14 tunnels and 22 bridges |
| Track Capacity | 25 tons |
| Maximum Train Speed | 110 kmph |
| Stations Between Sevoke-Rangpo | Riyang, Teesta Bazar (underground), Melli (all in West Bengal) |
| Project Management | Awarded to IRCON International in May 2010 |
| Original Deadline and Cost | May 2015, ₹4,084.69 crore |
| Revised Deadline and Cost | December 2024, ₹12,474.07 crore |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
The station’s design is inspired by Sikkim’s rich culture, heritage, and architecture, integrating modern infrastructure with the state’s identity.
The railway enhances connectivity and reliability during the monsoon, providing a crucial alternative when disruptions occur on NH-10.
The Teesta Bazar station showcases innovative engineering and adds to the uniqueness of the Sevoke-Rangpo railway section.
Trains can run at a maximum speed of 110 kmph, and the track has the capacity to handle 25 tons.
Originally scheduled for completion in May 2015 at a cost of ₹4,084.69 crore, the project is now expected to be completed by December 2024, with a revised cost of ₹12,474.07 crore.
Sources:
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