Big rail boost for Malwa: Centre approves Barnala halt for Ferozepur–Delhi Vande Bharat
With Barnala halt cleared, Ferozepur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express is expected to become more accessible to a larger population in Malwa region
PTC Web Desk: In a significant decision aimed at improving rail connectivity in Punjab’s Malwa belt, the Union Government has approved a stoppage of the Ferozepur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express at Barnala. The move is expected to bring wide-ranging benefits to Barnala and neighbouring districts, including Mansa, Malerkotla and Sangrur.
The announcement was made on Wednesday at the Parliament House complex by Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu. He said the demand for a halt at Barnala had been consistently raised by leaders cutting across party lines, reflecting the region’s long-standing need for better high-speed rail access.
According to Bittu, Aam Aadmi Party MP Meet Hayer, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Rajender Gupta and BJP leader Kewal Singh Dhillon had all urged the Railways to include Barnala as a stoppage on the premium train’s route. He added that the approval has now been granted, paving the way for improved travel options for residents and businesses in the region.
The minister said the new stoppage would play a key role in strengthening economic activity across central Punjab by enhancing connectivity with the national capital. Faster and more convenient travel, he noted, would benefit traders, professionals, students and commuters from the surrounding districts as well.
With the Barnala halt cleared, the Ferozepur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express is expected to become more accessible to a larger population in the Malwa region, marking another step towards expanding modern rail infrastructure in Punjab.