DC reviews ground work done for smooth execution of Railway Expansion Project in Samba District

SAMBA: The District Administration Samba today convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting under the chairpersonship of Deputy Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan, in connection with the proposed third railway line between Jalandhar Cantt.–Pathankot Cantt.–Jammu Tawi, spanning 216 kilometers. This high-level consultation brought together key stakeholders and line departments to discuss critical aspects of this transformative infrastructure project that promises to revolutionize rail connectivity in the region.

Presently, railway traffic on this busy corridor is being managed on two tracks comprising the up and down lines. However, considering the exponentially increasing volume of traffic on this vital route, the Ministry of Railways has initiated a comprehensive feasibility study for laying an additional third line to ensure punctuality of trains, reduce the axle load on existing tracks, and enhance overall operational efficiency. The survey for the project is currently underway and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being finalized for submission to the Railway Board within the next ten days, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progression.

The meeting deliberated extensively on key aspects of the project including land acquisition procedures, environmental clearances, rehabilitation measures and potential local issues that may arise during implementation. Officials from Northern Railways, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), PWD (Roads & Buildings), JPDCL, Hydraulic Department, Forest Department, Pollution Control Committee and other line departments attended the meeting and presented their technical inputs and departmental perspectives. The comprehensive participation ensured that all critical dimensions of the project were thoroughly examined and addressed.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the strategic importance of the project for the region, stating that the third railway line will not only decongest the existing rail network but also significantly enhance regional connectivity, boost economic development, and facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight traffic. She urged all departments and stakeholders to extend their full cooperation for the timely resolution of issues and smooth execution of the project, emphasizing that such transformative infrastructure initiatives require seamless inter-departmental coordination and collective commitment.

The meeting concluded with clear directions to all concerned departments to maintain close coordination and ensure that all required documentation, clearances and procedural formalities are completed within stipulated timelines. The Deputy Commissioner stressed that any delays in obtaining necessary approvals could impact the project timeline and requested all stakeholders to treat this as a priority initiative given its far-reaching implications for regional development and connectivity.