Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi new rail line foundation stone laid by PM Modi in 2019 – why railways yet to start the project

Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi Railway Line Project Update: The foundation stone for restoring rail connectivity between Rameswaram and Dhanushkodi was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 1, 2019.

Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi Railway Line Project: However, many of these railway projects are facing delays due to various reasons. (Representative Image/Ministry of Railways)

Railway line project in Tamil Nadu: Indian Railways (IR) has allocated Rs 6,626 crore for the financial year 2025–26 and announced several new infrastructure projects aimed at improving smooth and seamless connectivity across Tamil Nadu. However, many of these railway projects are facing delays due to various reasons, leading to an escalation in the funds required for their completion.

Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi railway line project update

One such key project affected by delays is the proposed new railway line between Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi. The Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi rail line got damaged after the disaster of 1964.

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Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi new railway line

More than six years after the foundation stone was laid, the Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi new railway line project has made little headway and remains largely on paper. The proposed 18-km rail link was sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 734 crore, but work on the project is yet to commence.

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In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on December 5, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project could not be taken up as the Tamil Nadu government has not undertaken land acquisition.

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Rameshwaram–Dhanushkodi railway line

“Rameshwaram – Dhanushkodi New Line (18 Km) was sanctioned at a cost of ₹734 Cr. The Foundation Stone of the project was laid on 01.03.2019. However, the project could not be started because the land acquisition has not been undertaken by the State Govt. of Tamil Nadu.

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Government of India is geared up to execute projects, however success depends upon the support of Government of Tamil Nadu,” the Union Minister stated. This railway project was included in Pink Book 2018-19 under Umbrella Work of New line.

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On July 21, 2023, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, said: “Government of Tamil Nadu vide letter dated 21.04.2023 has submitted that the project region is ecologically very sensitive and requested to drop this project.”

Anish Mondal

Anish Mondal is a business journalist with over nine years of experience. He writes on diverse subjects such as Infrastructure, Railways, Roadways, Aviation, Politics, Market, Parliamentary affairs, Corporate earnings, General and International news etc. ... Read More

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