New 309-KM Mumbai-Indore Direct Rail Line Okayed In Massive Boost To Infra

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved a major new rail project on Monday, aimed at connecting Mumbai and Indore with a 309-kilometre line. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 18,036 crore, with a projected completion date of 2028-29.

Employment and Economic Impact

During construction, the project is expected to generate approximately 102 lakh man-days of employment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the project’s benefits on social media, emphasizing its role in boosting commerce and creating job opportunities.

Enhanced Connectivity and Efficiency

The new rail line between Indore and Manmad will offer direct connectivity, enhancing mobility and efficiency within the Indian Railways network. The project is aligned with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aiming for seamless multi-modal connectivity and improved service reliability.

Regional Development and Tourism

Covering six districts in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the project will expand the Indian Railways network by about 309 kilometres. It is anticipated to boost tourism by providing a shorter route between western and central India, notably enhancing access to Ujjain’s Sri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.

Economic and Industrial Benefits

The new line will link the Pithampur Auto Cluster and provide direct access to millet-producing districts in Madhya Pradesh and onion-producing districts in Maharashtra. This will facilitate efficient distribution of these goods and improve the transport of various commodities, including agricultural products and industrial materials.

Environmental and Capacity Considerations

The project will also contribute to environmental goals by reducing oil imports by 18 crore litres and lowering CO2 emissions by 138 crore kg—equivalent to planting 5.5 crore trees. The capacity augmentation is expected to increase freight traffic by approximately 26 million tonnes per annum.

Station and Village Connectivity

The rail project will see the construction of 30 new stations, improving connectivity for the aspirational district of Barwani and approximately 1,000 villages, impacting about 30 lakh residents.