Railways approves final location survey for Melli-Dentam rail line in Sikkim

In a major step forward for railway connectivity in Sikkim, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned the Final Location Survey (FLS) for a new railway line from Melli to Dentam via Jorethang and Legship. The move is being seen as a significant development for the southern and western parts of the state, especially for the remote areas of West Sikkim.

The Ministry has also allocated Rs. 2.25 crore for the Final Location Survey. The decision was conveyed on May 8, with the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) instructed to begin the survey work at the earliest.

Lok Sabha MP from Sikkim, Indra Hang Subba, who had actively pursued this proposal, welcomed the decision. “I am delighted to share that the Railways ministry has approved the Final Location Survey for the new railway line from Melli to Dentam. This is an important step for the railway project, which will bring great changes to the development of remote areas in West Sikkim. We are hopeful that the survey will begin soon,” said Subba.

The proposed railway line is estimated to be around 75 kilometers long. It will pass through Melli, Jorethang, Legship, and finally reach Dentam, which is close to the Indo-Nepal border at Chiwabhanjyang. Melli serves as the entry point to the southern and western districts of Sikkim.

The idea for this project was first submitted by MP Subba to the Railways Ministry in December last year. He had argued that this railway link could act as a lifeline for the people of West Sikkim by connecting them more closely with the mainstream economy and society.

Subba followed up on the proposal with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and other officials. His continued efforts led to the approval of the Final Location Survey.

“This would not have been possible without the support of Hon’ble Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who personally looked into the matter. I am also thankful to our Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang for guiding and supporting this proposal,” said Subba.

The proposed Melli-Dentam railway link is intended to be an extension of the Sevoke-Rangpo railway project, which is already nearing completion. MP Subba has pointed out that Melli could act as a connecting point between the Sevoke-Rangpo line and the proposed extension to Dentam.

He added that the new railway line would have many benefits. “It will support economic growth in places like Gyalshing and other areas of West Sikkim. It will make it easier to do trade, bring more jobs, and open up our tourism sector. More people will be able to visit West Sikkim, which is known for its natural beauty and rich culture,” Subba said.

The MP also highlighted that the geographical terrain along the proposed route is less difficult compared to the Sevoke-Rangpo stretch. The line will follow the banks of the Rangeet River up to Legship, and then run along the Kalej River towards Dentam. This, according to Subba, makes the project more practical and easier to implement.