Dehradun, July 4: Devotees in Uttarakhand will now have direct access to one of their holiest shrines following the introduction of a weekly train service between Tanakpur and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Nanded in Maharashtra. The new service is scheduled to commence operations early next week, bridging the geographical gap for pilgrims.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu announced the development, noting that the initiative directly addresses a long-standing aspiration of the Sikh Sangat in the state. The Nanded-Tanakpur Weekly Express will officially begin its journey on July 6, establishing a seamless transit corridor from the Terai region.
In his public statement, the Union Minister affirmed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the proactive steps of the Railway Ministry, a major decision has been realized for the Punjabi and Sikh communities. “This step serves as a true honour to the faith and dedication of the Sangat,” the Minister declared while describing the spiritual significance of the route.
The direct rail link provides a significant logistical upgrade for pilgrims residing in the Kumaon-Terai belt. Previously, travelers bound for the sacred site in Maharashtra faced arduous journeys that required multiple railway transfers and lengthy road travel, both of which are now entirely eliminated by the new weekly timetable.
