Kutch Rail Boost: ₹3,375 Cr. Investment Unlocks Mineral Wealth

The Union Cabinet has cleared the development of two new railway lines in Gujarat’s Kutch region— the 81.77 km Desalpar–Hajipir–Luna line and the 62.69 km Vayor–Lakhpat line. Together with the 24.65 km Bhuj–Naliya extension to Vayor and the 24.88 km Naliya–Jakhau Port line, the projects will add a total of 194 km of rail network at an estimated cost of ₹3,375 crore.

These new routes are intended to strengthen the transport infrastructure for Kutch’s key mineral resources, including limestone and bentonite clay, which are major contributors to India’s mineral output. The Bhuj–Naliya extension will streamline logistics for cement producers, helping ease road congestion, while the Naliya–Jakhau Port line—costing ₹410.46 crore—will connect Jakhau Port to the national rail grid. This link will support smoother cargo movement and reduce pressure on larger ports. Its closeness to the India–Pakistan border and the Naliya Air Force Station also adds strategic importance.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.