The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the Ahmedabad-Dholera semi-high-speed double line railway project. This initiative marks the first of its kind by Indian Railways, utilizing domestically developed technology, with an investment totaling Rs 20,667 crore. The project aims to enhance connectivity between Ahmedabad, Dholera SIR, the upcoming Dholera Airport, and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex.
This new railway section will significantly reduce travel time for passengers, facilitating convenient daily commutes and same-day return trips between Ahmedabad and Dholera. Beyond bringing these two cities closer, the semi-high-speed railway will also benefit individuals residing hundreds of kilometers away. It is envisioned as a pioneering endeavor that will serve as a blueprint for the gradual expansion of semi-high-speed rail networks throughout the nation.
Covering the Ahmedabad district in Gujarat, the project will extend the Indian Railways network by approximately 134 km. It is projected to improve connectivity to around 284 villages, home to a population of about 5 lakh. The proposed railway line will offer direct connections, enhancing mobility and service reliability for Indian Railways, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of fostering self-reliance and comprehensive development in the region to boost employment opportunities.
Aligned with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the project emphasizes bolstering multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. These initiatives are designed to ensure seamless movement of people, goods, and services, fostering economic growth and development. Furthermore, the environmentally friendly and energy-efficient nature of railways is expected to aid in achieving climate objectives, reducing logistics costs, oil imports by 0.48 crore Litres, and CO2 emissions by 2 Crore kg, equivalent to planting 10 lakh trees.
