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The Ministry of Railways has approved an allocation of INR 8.48 crore for the Final Location Survey (FLS) of the proposed Melli�Dentam railway line in Sikkim, marking a key milestone in improving connectivity in the Himalayan state. The funds were recently communicated to the Northeast Frontier Railway through an official notification. The project, expected to cover nearly 75 km via Jorethang and Legship, aims to enhance accessibility, promote tourism, and strengthen border infrastructure. Local MP Indra Hang Subba had actively pursued the survey's approval.
The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned INR 8.48 crore for carrying out the Final Location Survey (FLS) of the proposed Melli-Dentam railway line in Sikkim. The decision was conveyed to the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) through an official letter received last week. The allocation marks a significant step toward extending railway connectivity deeper into the Himalayan region, where road access is often limited due to difficult terrain and weather conditions. Advertisement
The proposed route will connect Melli, located near the southern border of Sikkim, to Dentam in West Sikkim, passing through Jorethang and Legship. Once operational, the line is expected to open a new corridor for passenger and freight movement, linking several districts that currently rely heavily on road transport. The route was identified earlier for its potential to boost economic activity and ease mobility for residents and tourists.
According to initial feasibility assessments, the Melli?Dentam line is expected to span approximately 75 km. The sanctioned FLS will include detailed ground and topographical surveys, soil and rock testing, and the preparation of technical drawings to determine the most feasible alignment. The survey results will form the basis of the Detailed Project Report (DPR), which will include final cost estimates, route design, and construction methodology.
The allocation follows the efforts of Sikkim?s Lok Sabha MP, Indra Hang Subba, who met the Railway Minister earlier this year to request the survey?s early approval and expedite the preparation of the DPR. He highlighted the need for better connectivity in West Sikkim to support local development and ensure improved accessibility for remote communities.
The project holds strategic importance as Sikkim shares international borders with China, Nepal, and Bhutan. Improved connectivity is seen as essential not only for tourism and trade but also for security and logistics in the region. Once the survey is completed, the DPR will require final approval before the start of land acquisition and construction phases.
The Melli-Dentam line will complement the ongoing Sivok-Rangpo railway project, which aims to link Sikkim to the national railway network for the first time. The addition of a second line from Melli will further integrate southern and western Sikkim into India's broader rail map, reducing dependence on narrow mountain roads.
Officials have indicated that the survey work is expected to begin soon after administrative clearances are completed. Once detailed studies are concluded, the ministry will review the financial and technical viability before moving to the next phase of execution.
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