In a first, Andaman and Nicobar Islands to be connected by a train

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are India’s own exotic islands. Several tourists throng the islands every year to experience beach life at a fraction of the cost that a foreign beach destination demands. Now, the good news for many tourists is that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will soon get a railway route linking Diglipur and Port Blair. It is for the first time ever, that a railway line will put the islands on the rail route map.
Reportedly, the railway line will be 240 km long and will have stations and bridges next to the coast. Currently, the aforementioned route can be accessed by a bus service that runs 35 km in 14 hours and a sea route that takes 24 hours to reach the destination. Once the rail route becomes operational, the travel time will be reduced by three hours!


The main purpose behind introducing the rail route is to increase tourist arrivals and, thus, generate more revenue. Although, reportedly, as per the calculations made by the management, it is likely that it’ll incur a loss in this endeavour. Yet, the management committee is certain that they can cover up the expenditure by enhancing tourist arrivals.
Additionally, the Port Blair and Diglipur line will play an important role for the Indian defence forces. Since Diglipur is merely 300 km by sea from the south coast of Myanmar, the distance can be well covered.