India, Dec. 31 -- Sanctioned in 2007-08 and declared a "special project" by the Railways in 2019, the 28-km Chandigarh-Baddi rail link aims to connect the Tricity with Baddi, Himachal Pradesh's largest industrial hub. Why it matters: The line would streamline freight movement to and from Baddi, Solan, and Nalagarh, while reducing traffic on the congested NH-21A, thus offering safercommute for thousands of workers. Challenges: The estimated project cost of Rs.1,672.70 crore is to be equally shared by the Centre and states. Himachal Pradesh is lagging in depositing its required share while Haryana is struggling with land acquisition. Where it stands: The project missed its June 2025 deadline. As of late 2025, work on the Himachal side has shown progress....