Indian Government Approves Four Railway Projects — Two to Benefit 9 Districts in Madhya Pradesh

The Central Government has approved four major railway infrastructure projects, including two multitracking lines in Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Maharashtra. These projects aim to reduce travel time by up to 25%, improve railway capacity, and boost logistics efficiency.

Key Projects Approved

• Ratlam to Nagda (MP): Construction of the third and fourth railway lines.
• Wardha to Balharshah Junction (Maharashtra): Construction of a fourth line.

The total cost of these two multitracking projects is estimated at ₹3399 crore, with a combined line length of 176 km.

Impact on Travel and Economy

These rail projects are expected to benefit 9 districts in Madhya Pradesh and 4 in Maharashtra directly. Once operational, they will ease passenger and freight traffic, reduce congestion, and significantly lower logistics costs. Faster goods trains will benefit coal, cement, fly ash, gypsum, petroleum, containers, and agriculture sectors.

Employment and Regional Development

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the projects will contribute to regional development and generate new employment. Around 784 villages near the railway routes will see direct economic benefits.

Part of PM Gati Shakti Plan

These projects fall under the ‘PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan’, which aims to develop multi-modal connectivity across India. The government has set a completion target of FY 2029–30 for these lines.

This decision strengthens India's rail network, enhances capacity, and aligns with the vision of transforming India’s infrastructure for faster, more efficient logistics and public mobility.