With Rs 1,118cr project, Takht Damdama Sahib to be linked with rail line

Bathinda: The ministry of railways has sanctioned a 42km rail line between Bathinda and Mansa districts to provide rail connectivity to Takht Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, linking the only remaining site among the five Takhts (Sikhism's supreme temporal seats) to the national rail network.Union minister of state for railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, on Friday, announced the Raman–Sada Singh Wala broad gauge project estimated to cost Rs 1,118.47 crore (averaging Rs 26.07 crore per km). It will commence once the land acquisition process is complete. The new line requires 192.42 hectares of land—40.508 hectares in Mansa and 151.912 hectares in Bathinda. The route will feature six stations, including four new ones: Laleana, Talwandi Sabo, Jaga Ram Tirath, Kamalu Sawaich (which will also house a junction cabin) Designed as a crossing-free link, the project includes two major bridges, 56 minor bridges and 55 road under-bridges. It will be equipped with 2x25kV electric traction and advanced signalling systems. Bittu described the project as a milestone for faith, pride, and long-overdue justice for Punjab. He said the connectivity would finally bridge the gap between Takht Damdama Sahib and the other four Takhts. The project has been a long-standing demand. Former Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal first wrote to the railways ministry in 2012 and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal has frequently raised the issued in Parliament. Bittu slammed the previous Congress, SAD, and AAP govts, accusing them of neglecting Sikh heritage for political gain. He also said the Rs 100 crore redevelopment of the Bathinda railway station is expected to receive approval shortly. No stumbling blocks, farmers urged Addressing potential delays, Union minister of state for railways Ravneet Singh Bittu has urged political parties and farmer organisations not to obstruct land acquisition. He mentioned the spiritual importance of the project and assured farmers that any grievances regarding land or compensation would be addressed. MSID:: 129698914 413