Current Affairs

Indian Railways Approves Infrastructure Projects in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh

Indian Railways Approves Infrastructure Projects in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh

Strengthening India’s rail network and regional connectivity, Indian Railways has approved a series of key projects, including third-line construction, line doubling, and bypass alignments. These initiatives aim to enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, reduce travel time, and extend benefits to common man, while supporting economic growth and seamless mobility across strategic corridors.

1. Third Line Between Aunrihar – Varanasi City (31.36 km), Uttar Pradesh: ₹497.07 Crore

Indian Railways has sanctioned the construction of a dedicated third line between Aunrihar and Varanasi City under North Eastern Railway. This busy section currently handles high volumes of passenger and freight traffic, including essential commodities such as cement, coal, food grains, iron, steel, and industrial materials. The addition of a third line will enable 7.13 more trains in each direction daily and accommodate freight growth of 1.99 MTPA, enhancing overall network fluidity. Upon completion, current line capacity, now at 87.93% will increase to over 102%, significantly reducing congestion, improving punctuality, and supporting smoother travel for millions of passengers. This upgrade will also play a key role in boosting logistics efficiency for local industries and strengthening trade corridors in eastern Uttar Pradesh and adjoining regions.

2. Doubling of Ringas – Sikar (50.06 km), Rajasthan: ₹470.34 Crore

The doubling of the Ringas–Sikar section in Rajasthan under North Western Railway marks a major capacity boost on this important regional route. With an anticipated five additional trains per direction each day and freight traffic increase of 2.36 MTPA, this project will improve reliability and line speeds for both passenger and freight services. Enhanced operational efficiency will further improve connectivity across Rajasthan’s industrial and pilgrimage zones, including access to sites such as Khatu Shyamji and Salasar Balaji. Current utilization of 77% capacity is expected to rise to 210% by 2029–30, allowing the network to handle future traffic growth seamlessly. For local commuters and businesses, this doubling project means reduced delays, punctual services, and improved goods movement that will directly support economic activity and employment opportunities in the region.

3. Ujjain Bypass Line Connecting Naikheri – Chintaman Ganesh (8.60 km), Madhya Pradesh: ₹189.04 Crore

The Ujjain bypass line project under Western Railway will provide a strategic diversion that removes the need for train reversals at Ujjain Junction, substantially improving sectional capacity and operational efficiency. This corridor, which facilitates major religious and tourist traffic, especially in view of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2028 will enhance seamless train movements for lakhs of devotees who visit Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and other revered sites. The absence of reversals will reduce delays and improve timetable reliability, particularly during peak festival seasons. This project also ensures smoother handling of daily passengers and freight services, meeting both current demands and future growth. Locals, commuters, and pilgrims alike will benefit from faster transit and better service resilience.

These projects exemplify the Indian Railways’ commitment to inclusive and sustainable transport development, bridging connectivity gaps, improving service reliability, and driving India’s railways toward a modern, efficient, and citizen-centric future.

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