Strengthening India’s rail network and regional connectivity, Indian Railways has approved a series of major infrastructure projects across Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. These include third-line construction, line doubling, and a strategic bypass alignment.
The projects aim to:
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Enhance operational efficiency
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Improve safety and punctuality
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Reduce travel time
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Support freight growth
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Boost regional economic development
Third Line Between Aunrihar – Varanasi City railway station (31.36 km), Uttar Pradesh
Estimated Cost: ₹497.07 Crore
Sanctioned under the North Eastern Railway, this project involves construction of a dedicated third line between Aunrihar and Varanasi City.
Why This Section Matters
This corridor currently handles heavy passenger and freight traffic, including:
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Cement
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Coal
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Food grains
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Iron & steel
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Industrial materials
Expected Benefits
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7.13 additional trains per direction daily
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Freight capacity increase of 1.99 MTPA
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Current utilization at 87.93% expected to rise beyond 102% capacity
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Reduced congestion and improved punctuality
The upgrade will significantly enhance logistics efficiency for eastern Uttar Pradesh and adjoining regions, supporting both industry and passenger mobility.
Doubling of Ringas Junction railway station – Sikar Junction railway station (50.06 km), Rajasthan
Estimated Cost: ₹470.34 Crore
Approved under the North Western Railway, this doubling project will significantly enhance capacity on this important regional route.
Project Highlights
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5 additional trains per direction daily
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Freight traffic growth of 2.36 MTPA
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Current utilization at 77%, projected to reach 210% by 2029–30
Regional Impact
The section strengthens connectivity to major pilgrimage and regional centres, including:
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Khatu Shyamji Temple
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Salasar Balaji Temple
For commuters and businesses, the project will mean:
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Reduced delays
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Improved line speeds
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Better freight movement
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Enhanced economic activity and employment generation
Ujjain Bypass Line (Naikheri – Chintaman Ganesh, 8.60 km), Madhya Pradesh
Estimated Cost: ₹189.04 Crore
The bypass line under Western Railway will eliminate the need for train reversals at Ujjain Junction railway station, significantly improving sectional capacity and operational efficiency.
Strategic Importance
Ujjain is a major religious and tourist hub, particularly with the upcoming:
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Simhastha Kumbh Mela
The corridor also serves devotees visiting:
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Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Key Advantages
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Elimination of time-consuming reversals
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Reduced delays and improved timetable reliability
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Smoother train handling during peak pilgrimage seasons
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Enhanced freight and passenger throughput
The project will directly benefit lakhs of pilgrims, daily commuters, and freight operators alike.
Driving a Modern & Efficient Rail Network
These approvals reflect Indian Railways’ commitment to inclusive and sustainable transport development, focused on:
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Bridging regional connectivity gaps
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Improving network resilience
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Supporting industrial growth
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Enabling seamless passenger mobility
By enhancing line capacity, reducing bottlenecks, and improving operational efficiency, these projects mark another step toward a modern, future-ready railway system aligned with India’s growing mobility and economic needs.
