Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Malvinder Singh Kang, while speaking in the Lok Sabha during the discussion on the Demand for Grants for the Railways, raised several crucial issues concerning railway connectivity and infrastructure development in Punjab.
Kang began by thanking the Union Railway Minister for developing a world-class railway station at Sri Anandpur Sahib under the Amrit Bharat scheme, calling it a matter of pride as it is the birthplace of the Khalsa. He also extended thanks to Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu for this.
He further appreciated the Union Government for approving a ₹900 crore for semiconductor lab in Mohali. Highlighting long-pending demands, Kang said that two important assembly constituencies under Lok Sabha Anandpur, Sri Chamkaur Sahib and Balachaur, are still not connected to the railway network.
He emphasized that Sri Chamkaur Sahib is a sacred land associated with the unparalleled sacrifice of Sahibzadas Baba Ajit Singh and Baba Jujhar Singh, who fought bravely against the Mughal forces. He urged the Railway Minister to ensure that this holy town is connected with railways at the earliest, noting that lakhs of devotees from across the world visit the site every year.
Kang also demanded railway connectivity for Balachaur, stating that the region has been neglected for long and deserves to be linked with the national rail network. Raising another important issue, Kang urged the government to start daily superfast train services from Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib to Takht Sri Hazoor Sahib, Nanded, and Takht Patna Sahib.
He pointed out that the direct flight connectivity from the region has been discontinued, making it necessary to provide reliable rail connectivity for devotees. The AAP MLA also demanded the restoration of the Chatouli railway station in Mohali district, which was shut during the COVID-19 pandemic, and called for the resumption of train stops there.
In addition, Kang highlighted the slow pace of construction of four railway overbridges in Ropar district. He urged the Railway Minister to expedite the work to ensure timely completion and provide relief to commuters. Kang concluded by reiterating his demands and expressing hope that the Centre would take prompt action to address these important issues concerning Punjab’s connectivity and infrastructure.