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The Indian government has taken a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and economic development with the approval of a new 309-kilometer rail line project connecting Mumbai and Indore. This ambitious undertaking, costing a substantial ₹18,036 crore, is expected to be completed by 2028-29, promising to reshape transportation patterns and unlock economic potential across the region.
The new rail line is designed to provide a direct and efficient connection between the commercial hubs of Mumbai and Indore, two vital economic centers in India. The project will also connect previously unconnected areas in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, bridging the gap between these states and facilitating greater economic integration. The inclusion of 30 new stations along the route will further enhance connectivity, particularly benefiting the aspirational district of Barwani, along with an estimated 1,000 villages and 30 lakh people.
The project's impact extends beyond passenger transportation. By providing direct connectivity to the Pithampur Auto Cluster, home to numerous large and small industries, the new rail line will facilitate the efficient movement of goods between the cluster and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority and other state ports. This will boost the cluster's competitiveness and contribute to the growth of the Indian manufacturing sector. The line will also enhance the transportation of essential agricultural products, such as millet and onions, from their producing regions to various parts of the country. This efficient transportation will contribute to the stability of food supplies and promote agricultural trade.
Beyond economic benefits, the new rail line will also bolster tourism in the Ujjain-Indore region. The improved connectivity will encourage increased tourist footfall, particularly to religious sites like the Sri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. This will boost local economies and contribute to the development of the region's tourism infrastructure.
The project's realization is a direct outcome of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity. This plan emphasizes integrated planning to ensure seamless connectivity for people, goods, and services. The new rail line is a testament to the success of this plan, demonstrating its effectiveness in driving infrastructure development and fostering economic growth in India.
Source: Union Cabinet approves 309-km rail line between Mumbai, Indore