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The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of road and rail connectivity in supporting Sikkim’s tourism and economic growth. He pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Sevoke–Rangpo railway line, as key to improving access to the state. With significant progress made despite earlier delays, the rail link is expected to be operational by 2027. Alongside highway upgrades, these developments are aimed at reducing travel time, improving connectivity, and boosting tourism-driven economic activity in the region.
The Prime Minister said that improving road and rail connectivity is important for boosting tourism and economic activity in Sikkim. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the state’s 50 years of statehood celebrations, he noted that better infrastructure plays a key role in making remote regions more accessible and supporting local development. Advertisement
He explained that tourism growth in Sikkim depends largely on how easily people can travel to and within the state. To address this, the government has been working on expanding road networks and railway connectivity across the region. Improved highway links, especially those connecting Bagdogra to Gangtok and other key routes, are expected to reduce travel time and make movement smoother for both tourists and residents.
A major focus remains the Sevoke–Rangpo railway line, which will provide Sikkim with its first rail connection. The Prime Minister said that work on the project has moved forward steadily after facing earlier delays. The 45-km rail line includes a large number of tunnels and bridges due to the difficult terrain, making it one of the more complex railway projects in the region.
Construction challenges included environmental clearances, hilly terrain conditions, and disruptions during the pandemic. Despite this, a significant portion of tunnelling and structural work has already been completed. Once operational, the railway line is expected to improve connectivity between West Bengal and Sikkim and reduce dependence on road transport.
The government has set a target to operationalise the line by March 2027. This is expected to ease travel, lower logistics costs, and improve access for tourists visiting the state. The rail link is also seen as important for movement of goods, which can support local businesses and strengthen the regional economy.
He also pointed out that infrastructure development in the Northeast has picked up pace in recent years, with a stronger focus on integrating the region with the rest of the country. Sikkim, which has largely depended on road transport so far, is expected to benefit from this shift.
The Prime Minister added that tourism remains one of the main contributors to Sikkim’s economy, and better connectivity will help increase visitor numbers while creating employment opportunities. He indicated that continued investment in transport infrastructure will be important for sustaining growth in the state.
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