Baltana Railway Underpass Project Enters Final Land Acquisition Phase
The long-pending plan to construct a railway underpass at the Raipur Kalan–Harmilap Nagar level crossing (designated as RUB-123) in Baltana has progressed into its conclusive land-acquisition stage. This development has ignited optimism among local residents who have endured persistent traffic congestion and safety concerns at this heavily traversed stretch for years.
Final Notifications Issued Under Land Acquisition Act
Authorities have officially issued notifications under Sections 19 and 20 of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013. This action signifies the commencement of the ultimate phase in securing the necessary land parcels for the ambitious infrastructure project.
Gurbinder Singh Sandhu, the spokesperson for the Railway Crossing Removal and Underpass Construction Struggle Committee (RUB-123), highlighted that this advancement is the direct result of sustained advocacy efforts. He credited Member of Parliament Satnam Singh Sandhu and local councillor Anil Dubey, alongside dedicated committee members, for their relentless pursuit of the project.
Financial Clearance and Administrative Streamlining
In a parallel and crucial development, the Ambala railway division formally requested the Chandigarh administration to deposit its fifty percent share of the construction costs. This communication, dated January 19, 2026, clarifies that the tendering process for the underpass can be initiated promptly upon receipt of the Union Territory's financial contribution.
Gurbinder Singh Sandhu confirmed that the committee, in coordination with the MP and councillor, maintains regular dialogue with officials to prevent any potential delays at this critical juncture. He expressed strong confidence that physical construction activities will commence shortly after the completion of all financial formalities.
Project Cost and Expedited Approval Process
The railway underpass project carries an estimated total cost of Rs 12.81 crore. A significant administrative change is poised to accelerate the project's timeline. Chandigarh has recently regained the authority to approve local development works valued up to Rs 100 crore at the UT administration level.
This decentralization of power means that the budget clearance for the underpass, which previously required routing through the Union Home Ministry, can now be processed internally within the Chandigarh administration. Officials anticipate that this streamlined procedure will significantly expedite decision-making and facilitate a swifter project rollout, bringing much-needed relief to Baltana's commuters and residents.
