- विज्ञापन -
Punjab’s rail network has received a significant upgrade with the Union Government’s announcement of two new weekly express trains, the Ferozpur–Hazur Sahib Weekly Express and the Ferozpur– Haridwar Weekly Express. The Ministry of Railways has approved the proposal submitted by senior BJP leader Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi to the Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, granting permission to operate two new train services from Ferozepur. Rana Sodhi stated that the initiation of these two trains will strengthen the religious sentiments of both Hindu and Sikh communities, as both Haridwar and Nanded Sahib hold deep spiritual significance for them. Launched under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, these services mark a pivotal step in enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and improving access to key religious and cultural destinations across North and Central India. The Union Government’s commitment to modernizing Indian Railways is evident in these initiatives, which promise to transform travel for Punjab’s residents and beyond.
Strengthening Punjab’s Rail Infrastructure
The Union Government has prioritized rail development as a cornerstone of India’s journey toward Vikasit Bharat 2047, with Punjab emerging as a key beneficiary. In the Union Budget, Punjab was allocated an impressive rs5,421 crore for rail infrastructure, a staggering 24 times higher than the rs225 crore allocated between 2009 and 2014. This substantial investment underscores the government’s focus on expanding and modernizing the state’s rail network to meet the needs of its people. Since 2014, the Union Government has overseen the addition of 382 km of new railway tracks in Punjab, surpassing the entire rail network of the Philippines. Additionally, 30 railway stations in Punjab, including Abohar, Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Beas, Bathinda, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar Cantt, Mansa, and Malerkotla, are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme at a cost of rs 1,122 crore. These upgrades aim to enhance passenger amenities, safety, and connectivity, ensuring that Punjab’s rail infrastructure aligns with global standards.
New Weekly Express Trains: A Game-Changer for Connectivity
Announced on June 3, 2025, the Ferozpur–Hazur Sahib Weekly Express and the Ferozpur– Haridwar Weekly Express are set to enhance Punjab’s integration with key regions across India, catering to the diverse needs of passengers, including pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters.
1 F e r o z p u r – H a z u r Sahib Weekly Express : This train connects Ferozpur, a major city in Punjab, with Hazur Sahib in Maharashtra, a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs. The route includes crucial halts at Palwal, Bina Junction, Khandwa, and Ankai, facilitating seamless travel for both pilgrims and regular passengers. This service not only strengthens cultural ties but also boosts economic activity by connecting Punjab to Central India. The Union Government’s emphasis on pilgrimage connectivity reflects its commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage while fostering economic opportunities through improved transport links.
2 Fe r o z p u r – H a r i d w a r Weekly Express : Linking Ferozpur with Haridwar, a spiritual hub in Uttarakhand, this train serves devotees and tourists visiting one of India’s holiest cities. With key stops at Ambala Cantt and Saharanpur, the service ensures convenient access for Punjab’s residents to Haridwar’s religious and cultural landmarks. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting tourism and spiritual connectivity, making sacred destinations more accessible to the masses.
The Union Government’s Role in Rail Modernization The announcement of these trains is part of a broader strategy by the Union Government to transform Indian Railways into a modern, efficient, and passenger-centric network. Under the leadership of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Ministry of Railways has prioritized safety, innovation, and expansion. The 2024 Year-End Review by the Ministry highlights Indian Railways’ transformative journey, with significant investments in track upgrades, advanced signaling systems, and safety mechanisms like the KAVACH system to prevent collisions. The government’s focus on highspeed rail corridors, such as the proposed Delhi–Amritsar HighSpeed Rail (DAMHSR) project, further demonstrates its commitment to revolutionizing connectivity in Punjab. This 465 km corridor, which will connect Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar through 13 stations, is part of a national plan to introduce high-speed rail networks across India. With stations planned in Punjab cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Sangrur, and Malerkotla, this project will drastically reduce travel times and boost economic development in the region.
M o r e o v e r, t h e Un i o n Government’s investment in safety innovations, such as drone surveillance and advanced monitoring systems, ensures that Punjab’s rail network remains secure and reliable. These measures, combined with the electrification of railway lines and the development of dedicated freight corridors, are set to enhance both passenger and cargo movement, contributing to Punjab’s economic growth.
Impact on Punjab and Beyond
The announcement of these two weekly express trains is more than just an addition to Punjab’s rail timetable—it is a catalyst for socio-economic progress. By connecting Ferozpur to Hazur Sahib and Haridwar, the Union Government is facilitating easier access to religious and cultural sites, which will boost tourism and local economies. These trains also provide longdistance travel options for daily commuters, students, and professionals, fostering greater regional integration.
Conclusion
The Union Government’s announcement of the Ferozpur– Hazur Sahib Weekly Express and Ferozpur–Haridwar Weekly Express marks a milestone in Punjab’s rail connectivity. With rs 5,421 crore allocated for rail infrastructure, the redevelopment of 30 Amrit stations, and plans for high-speed rail corridors, the government is laying the foundation for a modern, connected, and prosperous Punjab. These initiatives not only enhance travel convenience but also strengthen cultural and economic ties across India, aligning with the vision of a Vikasit Bharat by 2047. As Indian Railways continues its transformative journey, Punjab stands to benefit immensely from the Union Government’s unwavering commitment to progress.
