by GTA on 11 April 2018 on behalf of the villages. However, no tender has been issued and no bid has been invited for the project after April 2018. The railway line is needed for security and socio-economic reasons. The railway line will help troops and armaments move faster towards the Indo-Tibet border. The new railway line allow easier access to the rest of India through Siliguri. It will boost the state's economy and tourism. Summary of Sikkim railway project Estimated cost: Rs.1,340 crore (13.4 billion) in 2008 but may exceed Rs.60 billion when the project is completed in 2022. Length of final alignment: 44.98 km Length of track in Bengal: 41.54 km Length of track in Sikkim: 3.44 km Stations: Riang (or Riayang), Gailkhola (or Geil Khola), Teesta Bazaar, Melli and Rangpo Nearest large junction: New Jalpaiguri (30 km from Sevoke through Siliguri junction) Route under tunnels: 38.64 km (86%) Number of bridges: 28 Number of tunnels: 14 Longest tunnel: 5.1 km See also Singtam Rorathang Majitar Rangpo railway station References External links Cities and towns in Pakyong district Pakyong district