SHIMLA/NEW DELHI:  After a long last  Himachal has got Rs 2681 Crore for Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri, Una-Hamirpur Rail line

and Uttarakhand got Rs.5120 Crore for Rishikesh-Karanprayag rail line  to Char Dham to spur mass tourism in these states. 

Northeastern states have got   more  that is in keeping with the 'Look Northeast Policy" of the Modi government.

It means Himachal, Uttarakhand and northeastern Himalayan Governments should ready themselves for  accommodating another surge in mass tourism. 

Once these projects are ready, "Hawai Chappal walas" will arrive in massive number for both " Him Darshan" and for setting up some gole gappa and momos vends across Himalayan state, spelling disaster to the already saturated carrying capacity of the  hill stations, caution environmentalists.     

 The Union Budget for 2024-25 has brought significant allocations and ambitious targets for the railways.

But the Dhami  led Double engine of Uttarakhand got  more than what the single engine-Sukhu government in Himachal Pradesh. 

But the railways budget focus on enhancing infrastructure, safety, and connectivity across various states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, and the northeastern states.

The Railway Budget for 2024-25 has allocated significant funds for infrastructure development in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth.

For Himachal Pradesh, ₹2,681 crore is earmarked for projects like the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri and Una-Hamirpur lines, focusing on tourism and local connectivity.

Uttarakhand sees continued investment in the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag line, crucial for Char Dham pilgrimage access and regional development.

The northeastern states will see the completion of key projects like the Jiribam-Imphal and Dimapur-Kohima lines, integrating these remote regions with the national network and boosting their economic prospects.

Punjab receives substantial allocations to upgrade existing routes and develop new freight corridors, improving logistics and trade efficiency.

Haryana, which has achieved 100% railway electrification, will benefit from improved infrastructure and passenger amenities.

Overall, this budget reflects a balanced approach to enhancing railway infrastructure across diverse terrains and regions, aiming for better connectivity, tourism, and economic growth. 

Budget Allocations:

1. Himachal Pradesh: ₹2,681 crore

2. Uttarakhand: ₹5,120 crore

3. Punjab: ₹4,933 crore

4. Haryana: ₹2,861 crore

5. Northeastern States: ₹10,369 crore

Targets and Initiatives:

- Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand:

  - Completion of several new railway lines and doubling projects to improve connectivity in mountainous regions.

  - Enhancements in safety measures and electrification projects.

  - Development of more robust rail infrastructure to boost tourism and facilitate easier access to remote areas.

-Punjab and Haryana:

  - Strengthening existing rail networks and developing new routes to handle increased passenger and freight traffic.

  - Investments in modernizing stations and improving passenger amenities.

  - Expansion of the Vande Bharat Express routes to include major cities in these states.

- Northeastern States:

  - Major investments in new rail lines to integrate remote regions with the national network.

  - Focus on improving last-mile connectivity to enhance economic development.

  - Electrification of key routes to ensure faster and more efficient rail services.

Overall, the Union Budget 2024-25 reflects the government's commitment to developing a more connected and efficient railway system, aiming to support economic growth and improve the quality of life in these states.

The emphasis on infrastructure development, safety, and modern amenities is expected to bring transformative changes, especially in the Himalayan and northeastern regions, where connectivity has been a longstanding challenge.