Rajasthan New Railway Line : The Indian Railways has given the green signal for a new railway line project stretching from Khajuwala to Jaisalmer along the country’s western border. The Final Location Survey (FLS) for this proposed rail line has been approved, and a budget of ₹6.50 crore has been sanctioned for the project.
This railway project is considered strategically, socially, and economically significant. The survey work for the new line will begin soon. Once completed, the rail line will boost tourism and trade, create employment opportunities for local residents, and provide better facilities for travelers.
Rajasthan New Railway Line : Direct Rail Connectivity for Border Areas
The proposed 260 km long Khajuwala–Jaisalmer rail line will establish a direct rail link from Shri Ganganagar to Bhuj (Gujarat) via Jaisalmer. Earlier, a survey between Anupgarh, Bikaner, and Khajuwala had already been completed. With this new approval, the rail network in the western border belt is set to become stronger and more efficient.
Strategic Importance of the Rail Line
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has been actively pursuing road connectivity projects linking Khajuwala with Jaisalmer and Bikaner. According to him, this route holds strategic importance, as it will facilitate the movement of border security forces. Furthermore, the project is expected to attract industrial investments and generate new employment opportunities.
Local MLA Dr. Vishwanath Meghwal has expressed gratitude to the central government for approving the survey.
Rail Connectivity for the First Time
Towns like Khajuwala, Chhatargarh, and Anupgarh are still completely disconnected from the railway network. Due to their distance (about 100 km from the district headquarters), residents depend on private buses for transportation. The new rail line will connect these rural areas directly, making travel to Phalodi, Ramdevra, Jaisalmer, and Barmer much easier.
A Strategic Step for National Security
After Operation Sindoor, ensuring fast and uninterrupted movement of military and transport resources along India’s western border has become a national priority. The Anupgarh–Khajuwala–Jaisalmer rail link will provide swift connectivity to the border zones, making it a key strategic asset for future challenges.
Rajasthan’s Role in Railway Network Remapping
Rajasthan is currently witnessing rapid restructuring of its western railway network. Following the Bikaner–Shri Ganganagar–Anupgarh section, the Khajuwala–Jaisalmer link will add a major new expansion to the state’s railway map.
Districts Likely to Benefit from the Rail Line
- Bikaner District – The line will originate from Khajuwala, located in this district.
- Shri Ganganagar District – A portion of the route may pass through this area.
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Barmer and Jaisalmer Districts – Residents of these districts will also benefit from improved connectivity.
Why the Khajuwala–Jaisalmer Rail Line is Important
- To connect strategically significant regions near the India-Pakistan border.
- To boost tourism, especially by improving access to Jaisalmer.
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To provide better transport options for crops and other goods.
