On July 6, 2024, a notable proposal was put forth in the Rajya Sabha advocating for the establishment of a direct railway link between Udaipur and Mumbai. The proposal suggests a new 20-kilometre railway line connecting Tintoi in Rajasthan to Modasa in Gujarat, aimed at enhancing travel convenience and fostering tourism growth.
The proposal underscores the increasing influx of tourists to Udaipur, a prominent destination in Rajasthan. This rise in tourism has been partly attributed to recent upgrades in railway infrastructure, including the broad gauge conversion of the Udaipur-Asarwa (Ahmedabad) line and the introduction of new trains linking Udaipur with various states. The Rajya Sabha member behind the proposal expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Rail Minister for their contributions towards improving railway services.
However, they highlighted ongoing challenges faced by passengers travelling from Udaipur to Mumbai. Currently, the journey necessitates a train transfer at Asarwa, which poses significant inconvenience, particularly for the elderly and families with small children. The proposed 20-kilometre extension would connect to the existing Udaipur route, creating a direct railway corridor from Udaipur to Mumbai via Baroda.
This development is expected to streamline travel, reduce journey times, and lower costs for commuters and tourists. Additionally, it could potentially increase the volume of visitors to Udaipur, further boosting the local economy. The proposed railway line reflects a strategic effort to enhance connectivity between key urban centres and improve the overall travel experience for passengers. As discussions progress, the proposal’s impact on regional transport infrastructure and tourism will be closely monitored.
