Jaipur: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat jointly launched the Swarnanagari Express on Saturday, linking Jaisalmer with Delhi.
At the opening ceremony, following a request from Union Minister Shekhawat and the local community, Vaishnaw revealed that the new service, originally called Jaisalmer–Shakur Basti–Jaisalmer, would now be known as Swarnanagari Express.
He added that the train would commence regular service on December 1.
The minister explained that the works underway at Jaisalmer railway station are in their final stages and should be finished within a month.
“Efforts will be made to ensure that Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the upgraded station,” he remarked.
Vaishnaw also confirmed plans to upgrade the rail link between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in the near future.
Officials said these upgrades would dramatically enhance connectivity, stimulate tourism, and bolster strategic infrastructure along the border.
“We’ll strengthen national security through improved connectivity,” Vaishnaw stated.
Work is progressing to link several areas along the Rajasthan–Pakistan border with new railway lines.
He noted that extending rail access to these sensitive zones would significantly lift the country’s security framework.
Under this plan, new lines are proposed for Anupgarh, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bhildi.
The minister arrived in Jaisalmer on Saturday to inaugurate the new train service heading to Delhi.
He also toured stalls under the One Station, One Product scheme and made purchases to support local artisans.
Vaishnaw said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the envisaged border‑area rail lines is being drafted and will be finalized in the coming months.
“A complete effort will be made to connect the entire border region,” he assured.
He added that railway projects valued at roughly ₹55,000 crore are presently underway across Rajasthan, which includes the redevelopment of 85 stations.
Ongoing developments also cover multiple new railway corridors and infrastructure works.
According to officials, these initiatives will improve connectivity, promote tourism, and fortify strategic infrastructure in the border area.
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