In the upcoming years, Ambala Railway Division is set to witness trains operating at a speed of 130 kilometers per hour, a significant increase from the previous 90 km/h. This initiative aims to save passengers’ time and ensure safer journeys.
Ambala Railway Division has meticulously planned this upgrade, intending to close railway gates and construct railway overbridges (ROB) and railway underbridges (RUB) across various sections.
Closing Gates for Speed and Safety
To achieve this goal, 257 railway gates were closed by the year 2014, out of the 589 gates previously in operation.
This closure allowed the construction of ROB and RUB, contributing to increased train speeds and improved safety for passengers.
Notably, this upgrade facilitated the safe operation of the Vande Bharat Express, connecting Amb Andaura to New Delhi.
Future Plans: Closing 42 Gates and Building Bridges
Looking ahead, Ambala Division plans to close 42 additional railway gates. These closures will be accompanied by the construction of 22 road overbridges and 20 underpasses in various sections,
including Saharanpur-Ambala, Ambala-Ludhiana, Bathinda-Shri Ganga Nagar, Jakhal-Hisar, Ludhiana-Dhuri, Rajpura-Bathinda, Delhi-Ambala-Kalka, Saharanpur-Tapri, Kalka-Shimla, and Sirhind-Amb Andaura.
This ambitious project, estimated at Rs 840 crore, aims to enhance train speeds and ensure passengers reach their destinations swiftly and safely.
Ambala Division: A Key Connection for Five States
Ambala Railway Division serves as a crucial link connecting five states, featuring over 135 railway stations and a vast network spanning 2201.49 km. Notably, the division boasts the World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway Section, renowned for its 102 tunnels.
With daily commuters exceeding 2 crore, including major stations like Ambala Cantt, Saharanpur, Bathinda, Kalka, Chandigarh, Jagadhri, Patiala, Sirhind, and Rajpura, the division plays a pivotal role in regional travel.
Quote from Mandeep Singh Bhatia, DRM, Ambala Division:
“With the construction of these bridges, the speed of trains will increase, allowing passengers to reach their destination safely and quickly.”