Jaisalmer : The inaugural special train of the new Jaisalmer–Delhi (Shakur Basti) rail service was flagged off today from Jaisalmer station by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. In view of public sentiment, Shri Vaishnaw announced that the train will be named Swarn Nagari Express.
The new rail service significantly improves connectivity between the national capital and western Rajasthan, linking cities such as Ramdevra, Jodhpur, Makrana, Jaipur, and Alwar with Delhi, offering passengers enhanced convenience and travel options.
Addressing the event, Shri Vaishnaw highlighted the rapid progress of Indian Railways under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that railway infrastructure in Rajasthan is witnessing unprecedented development. He informed that projects worth approximately ₹55,000 crore are currently underway, including new rail lines in border areas connecting Anupgarh, Khajuwala, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bhabhar, which will benefit the public and provide strategic support to the Armed Forces.
Shri Vaishnaw also emphasized the significant increase in budget allocation for Rajasthan railways—from ₹680 crore prior to 2014 to nearly ₹10,000 crore currently. He announced the construction of a second entry gate at Jaisalmer station and directed officials to expedite the completion of the coaching depot to facilitate additional train operations.
On station redevelopment, Shri Vaishnaw noted that Jaisalmer station’s transformation has been completed at a cost of ₹140 crore, and ongoing redevelopment work of 85 stations in Rajasthan involves an investment of about ₹4,000 crore. He further highlighted the operational expansion, including six pairs of Vande Bharat trains, one pair of Amrit Bharat trains, and eight new trains introduced in the last six months. He instructed prioritization of track renewal between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.
Expressing gratitude to Shri Vaishnaw, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and other dignitaries, including MP Shri Ummeda Ram Beniwal, former Union Minister Shri Kailash Choudhary, and MLA Shri Chhotu Singh, welcomed the launch of the new rail service and ongoing railway development in the state.
The Swarn Nagari Express is expected to significantly boost tourism, improve regional connectivity, and strengthen the railway network in western Rajasthan.