Indian Railways
Big rail boost! Modi govt clears semi high-speed train project for Gujarat
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved the Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)–Dholera Semi High-Speed Double Line project of the Ministry of Railways at an estimated cost of ₹20,667 crore.
The project will mark Indian Railways’ first semi high-speed rail corridor and is planned using indigenously developed technology, making it a major milestone in the country’s railway modernisation journey.
The proposed railway section will provide faster connectivity between Ahmedabad, Dholera Special Investment Region, the upcoming Dholera International Airport, and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex.
The enhanced connectivity between Ahmedabad and Dholera is expected to significantly reduce travel time, making daily commuting more convenient and enabling same-day return trips for passengers.
The semi high-speed rail corridor is also expected to strengthen regional connectivity, bringing not only the two cities closer but also improving accessibility for people living hundreds of kilometres away.
As India’s first semi high-speed rail project, it is expected to serve as a pioneering reference model for the phased expansion of similar high-speed and semi high-speed rail corridors across the country.
The new line will improve mobility, enhance operational efficiency, and provide better service reliability for Indian Railways. The project aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a “New India” and is expected to drive comprehensive regional development, creating employment and self-employment opportunities while promoting self-reliance.
Planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the project focuses on strengthening multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. It aims to ensure seamless movement of people, goods, and services across the region.
The railway line, covering Ahmedabad district in Gujarat, will expand the existing Indian Railways network by approximately 134 kilometres.
The project is expected to improve connectivity for nearly 284 villages, benefiting a population of around five lakh people.
As railways remain one of the most environment-friendly and energy-efficient modes of transportation, the project will contribute significantly to India’s climate goals. It is expected to reduce oil imports by 0.48 crore litres and lower carbon dioxide emissions by 2 crore kilograms — equivalent to planting nearly 10 lakh trees.
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