Tracking Progress: New ₹872 Crore Rail Projects Sanctioned

The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned infrastructure projects worth ₹872 crore across Rajasthan, Kerala, and West Bengal to modernise coaching facilities, ease congestion on key routes, and enhance passenger as well as freight capacity.

Rajasthan: Strengthening Maintenance Infrastructure
In Rajasthan, two major initiatives will bolster coach maintenance capabilities. Phase I entails construction of a new coach maintenance facility at Shri Ganganagar station at a cost of ₹174.2 crore, designed to service modern rolling stock such as LHB coaches and Vande Bharat Express.

Phase II involves expansion of coaching maintenance facilities at Lalgarh at an estimated ₹139.6 crore. The upgrade aims to address rising maintenance requirements in the Bikaner region, improving reliability and operational efficiency.

Kerala: Doubling a Key Corridor
In Kerala, the 21.10-km Turavur–Mararikulam doubling project has been approved at a cost of ₹450.5 crore. The project will enhance capacity along the busy Ernakulam–Alappuzha–Kayankulam corridor. According to the Railways, the doubling will enable operation of nine additional passenger trains daily in each direction and support increased freight movement of around 2.88 million tonnes per annum. It is also expected to reduce freight train detention by 17–19 minutes and passenger train delays by 12–15 minutes.

West Bengal: Direct Connectivity to Cut Delays
In West Bengal, a 4.75-km Kalipahari Bypass Line has been sanctioned at ₹107.10 crore. The bypass will directly link the South Eastern Railway and Eastern Railway networks, eliminating the need for engine reversals and significantly reducing operational delays.

These projects form part of Indian Railways’ broader push to upgrade infrastructure, improve efficiency, and strengthen capacity across high-traffic corridors.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.