The Indian Railways has officially scrapped the Rs 402 crore Mathura-Vrindavan railway gauge conversion project. Initially sanctioned in 2017–18, the project aimed to replace the century-old metre gauge track with a broad gauge line. However, due to financial unsustainability and strong local opposition, the project has been permanently closed as of June 6, 2025, following approval from the Railway Board and concurrence from its Finance Directorate.
Despite the project’s termination, significant work had already commenced. In early 2023, a Rs 191 crore contract was awarded to ISC to dismantle the existing rail infrastructure and lay a new broad-gauge track. Construction began on March 31, 2023, with an estimated completion date of March 30, 2025. Another Rs 38 crore contract was given to HOG Projects for new station infrastructure at Krishna Janmabhoomi and Vrindavan, covering platforms and foot-over bridges. However, these efforts were halted due to mounting resistance from local residents. The primary resistance came from residents of Mathura, who strongly opposed the elevated embankment alignment of the new track. Unlike the ground-level metre gauge line, which was easily accessible and had minimal safety risks due to its slow-moving railbus, the proposed design posed mobility restrictions for locals.
A key meeting held on September 1, 2023, involving the NCR zone, district authorities, and local representatives, led to a majority consensus favouring a road construction in place of the new rail line. This civilian pressure played a critical role in the project’s eventual closure. Infrastructure experts have raised serious concerns over the planning and vision of the Railway Ministry. With multiple contracts awarded and significant groundwork already undertaken, the cancellation raises alarms about due diligence and long-term planning in public infrastructure. The abrupt halting of the project has led to questions regarding the allocation of public funds and the effectiveness of the decision-making process. The historic railbus service, operating twice daily for over a century on the metre gauge line, was halted in early 2023 to accommodate gauge conversion works. With the project now abandoned, the heritage line stands dismantled without a replacement in place.
However, the Indian Railways has announced plans to transform the metre gauge line into a heritage line, preserving its historical significance while addressing the concerns of the local community. This move aims to balance development with cultural preservation, ensuring that the rich heritage of the region is maintained for future generations. In an official communication dated June 6, 2025, addressed to the General Manager of the North Central Railway, the Railway Board approved the permanent closure of the Mathura–Vrindavan rail section under the Agra Division. The zone has been instructed to take further necessary actions to formalise the closure. While the immediate future of the rail corridor remains uncertain, the focus is now shifting towards alternative transportation solutions that align with the needs and aspirations of the local population.
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