New Delhi/Chandigarh, December 2, 2024: During the winter session of Parliament, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu raised the issue of enhancing air and rail connectivity to Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, Maharashtra, one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines.
In a question directed at Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Sandhu inquired about steps taken to improve connectivity to the shrine, which attracts over 6 lakh pilgrims annually. Responding in writing, the minister stated that under the Udan 5.0 scheme, flights now connect Nanded to nine destinations, including Ahmedabad, Hindon, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Nagpur, Pune, Patna, Adampur, and Goa. Six of these routes became operational earlier this year.
“Flights from Adampur and Amritsar to Nanded Sahib ensure hassle-free travel for pilgrims. The government is committed to providing better air connectivity to this sacred Sikh shrine,” said Naidu.
Sandhu also sought updates from Union Railway Minister Ashwani Vaishnav on rail projects to improve access to the shrine. Vaishnav detailed various initiatives, including the construction of new railway lines, doubling of existing tracks, and bypasses in the Nanded region.
“Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is already well-connected by rail with express and passenger trains. However, projects like the Wardha-Nanded line and new services, including Vande Bharat trains, are being considered,” the minister stated.
Speaking to reporters, Sandhu highlighted the shrine’s historical and spiritual significance: “Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is the sacred site where Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, renounced his worldly life and merged with the Eternal God. Despite its importance, connectivity has been a persistent challenge.”
He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts, adding, “The central government has prioritized improving access to Sikh religious sites. Flights under the Udan scheme and expanded rail services are steps in this direction.”
Sandhu emphasized the ongoing efforts, saying, “The government is committed to ensuring seamless travel for millions of devotees, with projects addressing both air and rail connectivity.”
With improved connectivity, Takht Sri Hazur Sahib is poised to become more accessible to Sikh pilgrims from across India and the world.
