Jodhpur: Railway connectivity in Rajasthan received a significant boost with the official launch of a new Jaisalmer–Delhi (Shakur Basti) Special Train on Friday. The service was flagged off by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, marking a major expansion in passenger convenience across the desert region.
During the event, Vaishnaw announced that the newly introduced train will be renamed “Swarn Nagari Express” in response to strong demand from the public. He highlighted that the initiative reflects the government’s focus on improving transportation access in border district areas like Jaisalmer.
₹55,000 Crore Projects Underway in Rajasthan
The Railway Minister said Rajasthan is witnessing unprecedented railway development with projects worth approximately ₹55,000 crore currently in progress. These include major upgrades to infrastructure, enhanced operational capacity and improved safety measures across key routes.
He affirmed that strengthening connectivity in western and border regions remains an important strategic and developmental priority for the Central Government.
New Railway Lines to Support Civil and Defence Mobility
Vaishnaw informed that proposals for new rail lines across the state are advancing through different approval stages. These include the route beginning in Anupgarh and connecting Khajuwala, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer and Bhabhar.
He noted that apart from supporting the travel needs of local communities, these routes will play a crucial role in national security logistics and defence readiness.
Major Station Redevelopment Across the State
A key highlight of the event was the announcement that the ₹140 crore redevelopment of Jaisalmer Railway Station has been completed. The commissioning ceremony will soon be proposed to the Prime Minister.
Across Rajasthan, 85 railway stations are being modernized with a combined investment of ₹4,000 crore, aimed at improving comfort, accessibility, and service quality for passengers.
New Generation Train Services Expanding Rapidly
The Minister shared that Rajasthan has seen the operational rollout of:
- Six pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains
- One pair of Amrit Bharat trains
Vaishnaw added that including the newly launched Swarn Nagari Express, eight new train services have been introduced in the state in the last six months alone — reflecting rapid progress in railway infrastructure strengthening.
Additional Enhancements for Jaisalmer
Addressing local demands, Vaishnaw announced:
- A second entry gate will be developed at Jaisalmer Railway Station
- Track renewal work on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur section will be taken up on priority
He reiterated that the Government remains committed to expanding connectivity, enhancing passenger facilities and ensuring smooth travel options for communities across Rajasthan.
Residents and local representatives present at the ceremony welcomed the new train and the development announcements, expressing hope that improved rail infrastructure will promote tourism, economic activity, and regional growth.
