The Union Cabinet has approved four significant multi-tracking projects spanning 18 districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh, marking a major expansion of the Indian Railways network. The initiatives, with a combined investment of ₹24,634 crore, are expected to be completed by 2030–31 and will add approximately 894 km of new track.
According to officials from the Ministry of Railways, the projects aim to enhance connectivity to over 3,600 villages, covering an estimated population of 85.84 lakh. Notably, two aspirational districts—Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh and Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh—will benefit from the development, providing improved access to essential transport infrastructure. The largest component includes a 314 km upgrade from two-track to four-track between Wardha and Bhusawal in Maharashtra, estimated at ₹9,197 crore. Other major segments include 259 km from Vadodara in Gujarat to Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh at ₹8,885 crore, 237 km connecting Itarsi, Bhopal, and Bina in Madhya Pradesh at ₹4,329 crore, and 84 km between Gondia in Maharashtra and Dongargarh in Chhattisgarh at ₹2,223 crore.
Officials emphasised that these projects are integral to the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which seeks to integrate multi-modal connectivity to optimise logistics efficiency across India. The approved routes are critical for the transportation of commodities such as coal, cement, fly ash, food grains, and steel. Once operational, these corridors are expected to handle an additional 78 million tonnes per annum of freight, significantly enhancing regional economic productivity. Beyond freight, the projects are designed to improve passenger mobility and provide access to key cultural and ecological destinations, including the Sanchi Stupa, Satpura Tiger Reserve, Bhimbetka rock shelters, Hazara Falls, and Nawegaon National Park. Urban development and tourism experts note that enhanced rail connectivity to such destinations can stimulate local economies while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly travel alternatives.
Officials further highlighted that the capacity augmentation will alleviate congestion on existing lines, reduce travel times, and strengthen the resilience of the railway network. Multi-tracking is expected to support equitable development by facilitating better access to remote areas and fostering economic inclusivity in rural districts. The Railways Ministry stated that all projects will adhere to modern engineering standards and sustainability practices, reinforcing the commitment to low-carbon and environmentally conscious infrastructure development. Completion of these projects will not only modernise India’s railway network but also strengthen the country’s logistics ecosystem and regional connectivity across multiple states.
Indian Railways Cabinet Approves Four Projects Covering Eighteen Districts Four States
