Railways Ministry Considering Melli-Dentam Railway Link to Improve Connectivity in South and West Sikkim
First Published: 19th March, 2025 13:36 IST
Melli-Dentam Railway Link: The Railways Ministry is actively considering a proposal to connect the southern and western regions of Sikkim with a new railway line, with a feasibility survey currently
Melli-Dentam Railway Link: The Railways Ministry is actively considering a proposal to connect the southern and western regions of Sikkim with a new railway line, with a feasibility survey currently in the works. The proposed 75 km railway link would cover key locations, including Melli, Jorethang, Legship, and Dentam.
Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba had written to the Railways Minister in December 2024, urging for new railway connectivity in Sikkim. Following his proposal, the Railways Ministry directed an initial feasibility study, which confirmed the Melli to Dentam route to be approximately 75 km in length. Melli serves as the entry point to the southern and western districts of Sikkim, while Dentam is a remote town near the Indo-Nepal border at Chiwabhanjyang.
According to sources, the Northern Frontier Railways (NFR) has requested the Railway Board to approve the feasibility study at an estimated cost of Rs. 37.50 lakh. The Railway Board is actively reviewing the request, and the approval is expected soon.
The Melli-Dentam railway link is seen as a strategic extension of the ongoing Sevoke-Rangpo railway project, which is set to connect Sikkim with the national railway network. The Sevoke-Rangpo line is nearing completion and is expected to be operational by mid-2026. MP Indra Hang Subba highlighted that Melli would serve as a key connecting junction for both the Sevoke-Rangpo line and the proposed Melli-Dentam route.
Indra Hang Subba has been actively pursuing the project, stressing that the new railway line could have a transformative impact on the southern and western parts of Sikkim. He informed the Railways Minister that the railway link would serve as a lifeline for West Sikkim, improving connectivity for remote areas and integrating them with mainstream economic and social activities.
“The proposed railway link will unlock the economic potential of the region, spur industrial growth, facilitate trade, and create new employment opportunities,” the Lok Sabha MP said.
Improved rail connectivity is also expected to boost tourism in West Sikkim. The region’s eco-tourism and cultural sites would become more accessible to visitors, further driving economic growth and strengthening Sikkim’s tourism sector.
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