Centre Announces ₹1,200-Crore Mega Development Package for Amritsar

Amritsar (The Uttam Hindu): Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V. Somanna, visited the Amritsar Railway Station to review the ongoing redevelopment and beautification project being carried out at a cost of ₹300 crore. During his visit, the Minister met with senior railway officials to assess the progress of the modernization plan aimed at transforming the station into a world-class facility.
Upon his arrival, BJP District President Harvinder Singh Sandhu, along with party officials, welcomed the Minister with a bouquet of flowers and a ceremonial shawl. During the interaction, Sandhu submitted a memorandum requesting the completion of the Rigo Bridge and urging that the ‘Vande Bharat Express’ train between Amritsar and Delhi be scheduled to run from evening to morning to better serve passengers.
Later, Minister Somanna, accompanied by BJP Amritsar Rural District President Amarpal Singh Boni Ajnala and Gurpratap Singh Tikka, paid obeisance at Sri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple) and sought the Guru’s blessings before proceeding with his official review.
While speaking to the media, Somanna reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the development of Punjab, highlighting several major projects launched in the state. These include the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Amritsar, AIIMS in Bathinda, PGI satellite centers in Ferozepur and Sangrur, the construction of two new airports, the Delhi–Amritsar–Katra Expressway, and the expansion of the Shahpur Kandi project. He also mentioned the modernization of 27 railway stations across Punjab, with Amritsar among the top priorities.
The Minister emphasized that the Amritsar Railway Station holds special importance, as it welcomes thousands of domestic and international pilgrims every day who visit the city’s sacred shrines and ceremonies such as the Beating Retreat at Wagah Border. The redevelopment project aims to upgrade facilities, improve passenger convenience, and enhance the city’s global connectivity.
Regarding the Rigo Bridge, Minister Somanna took a detailed briefing from officials and directed them to complete the project by next year under all circumstances. The bridge is a vital link expected to ease traffic congestion and improve access between key areas of the city.
It’s worth noting that the Union Minister had recently visited flood-affected villages in Ajnala, where he reviewed the damage along with BJP Amritsar Rural President Amarpal Singh Boni. During that visit, Somanna assured local residents that the Modi government would extend all possible assistance for their rehabilitation and recovery.
With renewed focus from the Centre, Amritsar is set to witness a wave of infrastructural and civic transformation, aligning with the government’s vision of turning Punjab’s holy city into a model of heritage and modernity.