New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh)—Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh flagged off the newly introduced Nanded–Tanakpur–Nanded Weekly Express on Monday, describing the service as a historic initiative aimed at boosting religious tourism, enhancing regional connectivity, and fostering national integration. The newly inaugurated weekly express creates a direct rail corridor between Tanakpur, considered the gateway to the revered Maa Purnagiri Dham in Uttarakhand, and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, Maharashtra, which stands as one of the five holy seats of authority in Sikhism.
The Minister noted that the weekly express will significantly benefit pilgrims, tourists, and the public by offering seamless travel between North and South India. According to the operational schedule, the train will depart from Nanded every Sunday and arrive in Tanakpur on Tuesday morning, while the return service will leave Tanakpur every Tuesday. Highlighting the historical links between Uttarakhand and the Sikh community, the Minister observed that the Terai region, specifically Udham Singh Nagar, possesses a vibrant Sikh population that has substantially contributed to local agricultural and economic growth since Independence. The direct link is expected to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties across Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra.
Prior to the flagging-off ceremony, the Minister paid obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Nanakmatta Sahib, a prominent Sikh shrine associated with the first Udasi of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He reiterated that the Central Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to preserving India’s spiritual heritage while expanding modern railway infrastructure. He concluded by congratulating the Ministry of Railways, the Government of Uttarakhand, and related stakeholders, expressing confidence that the route will serve as a vital lifeline for pilgrims, traders, and families.
