Khanna for rail link between Anandpur Sahib, Amritsar

Rajya Sabha ex-MP Avinash Rai Khanna met Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu and urged him for a direct rail link between the historic religious cities of Sri Anandpur Sahib and Amritsar, saying the project would significantly enhance convenience for pilgrims and promote regional development.

During the meeting, Khanna highlighted the immense religious and historical significance of both cities. He pointed out that Sri Anandpur Sahib is home to Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Gurdwara Sri Sis Ganj Sahib, Gurdwara Sri Kiratpur Sahib and Gurdwara Baba Gurditta Ji, while Amritsar houses Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) and Sri Durgiana Temple. He said connecting these major pilgrimage centres through rail would greatly benefit devotees travelling from across the country.

Khanna recalled that he had raised the issue during his tenure as a Member of Parliament, following which a survey for the proposed rail link had also been conducted. He suggested extending the existing railway line from Garhshankar to Sri Anandpur Sahib, which would enable direct rail connectivity between the two historic cities.

He added that the proposed rail link would not only improve accessibility for pilgrims, but also strengthen tourism, trade and economic activities between the two regions.

Responding to the proposal, Bittu assured Khanna that he would take up the matter with the Central Government and make efforts to expedite the necessary action on the project.