Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav's visit to Jaipur has given new momentum to railway projects in Rajasthan. The minister made significant decisions for the state, including freeing major cities from railway crossings, introducing new Vande Bharat trains, and a plan to develop Jaisalmer as a tourism hub.
Jaipur: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav's one-day visit to Jaipur on Thursday has given new impetus to the expansion of the railway network in Rajasthan. Under the leadership of the BJP government, these efforts will not only strengthen the infrastructure but also highlight the state's economic and political image. Amidst questions raised by the opposition Congress on railway projects, Vaishnav sent a clear message that the Modi government's focus is on 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together with all, Development for all), which will prove particularly beneficial for a large state like Rajasthan.
Freedom from Railway Crossings: Reduction in Traffic Jams and Accidents in Cities
Ashwini Vaishnav announced that major cities in Rajasthan will be freed from railway crossings. Crossings in large cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur have often caused traffic jams and accidents. The minister stated that a detailed plan for the entire state will be prepared within the next two to three months and sent to the ministry.
Vaishnav said, "This step will enhance public convenience and strengthen the state government's 'Rising Rajasthan' vision." Politically, this is a major advantage for the BJP, as the Congress had previously raised the issue of railway crossings multiple times in the assembly. This initiative is now likely to strengthen the vote bank in the 2028 elections.
Expansion of Vande Bharat Train: Revolutionizing Jodhpur-Bikaner Connectivity
The Railway Minister announced that new Vande Bharat trains will soon be introduced between Jodhpur-Delhi and Bikaner-Delhi. Furthermore, an integrated coach complex and a rail coach restaurant at Khatipura station were inspected, and a plan to develop maintenance facilities for 12-18 trains in Jaipur was announced. Vaishnav stated that the Vande Bharat train will accelerate Rajasthan's journey of pride and fulfill the demands raised by the state's MPs in Parliament. This initiative exemplifies 'Make in India' and central-state coordination, with the state receiving a railway budget of ₹9,960 crore this year.
Efforts to Make Jaisalmer a Tourism Hub
The Union Minister said that a proposal for an overnight train between Delhi and Jaisalmer is being prepared. With this train operational, tourists will be able to reach Jaisalmer overnight, giving a significant boost to Rajasthan's tourism sector. The minister stated that considering Jaisalmer's strategic and tourism importance, the process for expeditious approval of the proposal is underway. This initiative is linked to the BJP's 'Act East' policy, focusing on both border security and regional development.
