Major Rail Infrastructure Boost for Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh: Rs 21,550 Crore Sanctioned for Two Key Projects

Reported By Amit Singh
New Delhi, 27 June 2025: Indian Railways has approved two major infrastructure projects worth a combined ₹21,550 crore aimed at enhancing connectivity between Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. These projects—the Manmad–Indore new rail line and the Bhusaval–Khandwa third and fourth lines—mark a significant step in strengthening cross-state rail capacity and regional development.

Manmad–Indore New Rail Line: ₹18,036 Crore

A new 309 km rail line connecting Manmad in Maharashtra to Indore in Madhya Pradesh has been sanctioned at a cost of ₹18,036 crore. This greenfield project is expected to provide a direct and faster route between northern Maharashtra and central Madhya Pradesh, significantly reducing travel time and easing congestion on existing routes.

The new corridor will not only facilitate faster passenger movement but also create an efficient freight route between the industrial belts of Nashik, Aurangabad, and Indore. It is poised to benefit industries, agriculture, and trade by opening up new logistical possibilities in both states.

Once completed, the line will enhance connectivity to major cities and economic hubs, while also providing a boost to tourism and employment along the new rail corridor.

Bhusaval–Khandwa Third and Fourth Lines: ₹3,514 Crore

To address growing traffic on the busy Bhusaval–Khandwa section, a project for the construction of third and fourth lines has been approved at a cost of ₹3,514 crore. This corridor is a critical link between northern and southern India, passing through Maharashtra and connecting to Madhya Pradesh.

The augmentation of this route will decongest the high-density section, improve train punctuality, and increase the overall carrying capacity. It will benefit both freight and passenger trains by enabling simultaneous two-way traffic and reducing delays caused by single-line limitations.

The project also complements ongoing electrification and station modernization work in the region, reinforcing Indian Railways’ push toward capacity expansion and network optimization.

Strategic Importance

Both projects are part of Indian Railways’ broader infrastructure modernization plan, with a focus on enhancing connectivity between states, improving efficiency, and supporting economic growth. These corridors play a vital role in connecting industrial zones, agricultural markets, and urban centers in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

The sanctioned investments reaffirm the Centre’s focus on long-term, integrated development of rail infrastructure in central and western India. Construction work is expected to commence following statutory clearances and land acquisition.