Sikkim’s long-standing demand for stronger railway connectivity gained fresh momentum on Monday as the state’s lone MP, Indra Hang Subba, met Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu in the national capital. The meeting focused on two key projects — the proposed Melli–Dentam railway link and the under-construction Sevoke–Rangpo line, which will soon connect Sikkim to India’s railway network for the first time.
Subba pressed the ministry to expedite the Final Location Survey (FLS) of the Melli–Dentam link, calling it critical for boosting accessibility in the hilly state and unlocking new opportunities for socio-economic development. The survey had earlier been sanctioned after his request to the Union Railway Minister, but progress has been slower than anticipated.
On the Sevoke–Rangpo line, which is nearing completion, Subba turned attention to the state’s first-ever railway station at Rangpo. While the structural blueprint has already been finalised, he insisted that design adjustments should be made to reflect the unique culture and traditions of Sikkim. “The Rangpo station should not only be a transport hub but also a reflection of our identity and heritage,” he emphasised.
The MP also extended an invitation to the minister to visit Sikkim and personally review the progress of the projects. Such a visit, he argued, would give central officials better insight into the aspirations of Sikkim’s people regarding rail connectivity.