The Bhanupalli–Bilaspur–Beri (63 km) New Rail Line—a strategically important infrastructure project for Himachal Pradesh—has been sanctioned at a total estimated cost of ₹6,753 crore, including ₹1,617 crore earmarked for land acquisition.
The project is being executed on a cost-sharing basis, with the Central Government contributing 75% of the expenditure and the Himachal Pradesh Government bearing 25%, along with the full cost of land beyond ₹70 crore.
Land Acquisition Delays Slow Down Execution
A total of 124 hectares of land is required for constructing the new railway line. However, the Himachal Pradesh Government has so far provided only 82 hectares, leaving key stretches—especially Bilaspur to Beri—pending for handover. Work has commenced on the land made available, but the non-availability of remaining land is significantly delaying progress, officials said.
Funding Gap Widens
The project has already incurred ₹5,252 crore in expenditure. According to the cost-sharing formula, the Himachal Pradesh Government was required to contribute ₹2,711 crore of the total.
However, the State has deposited only ₹847 crore, leaving a balance of ₹1,863 crore still outstanding.
This funding shortfall, combined with slow land acquisition, is adversely impacting the implementation of the project.
Centre Stresses Need for State Cooperation
Officials emphasized that the project’s progress is directly dependent on the State Government fulfilling its commitments. The Government of India is fully prepared to execute the project, but timely cooperation from the Himachal Pradesh Government—particularly in releasing funds and providing land—is essential for faster completion.
The Bhanupalli–Bilaspur–Beri line is expected to significantly improve connectivity, support regional development, and strengthen socio-economic integration in Himachal Pradesh once completed.