The central government has approved the doubling of the 240-kilometre Gondia–Balharshah railway line in Maharashtra. The project, announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, involves an investment of Rs. 48.19 bn and is expected to significantly enhance connectivity in the Vidarbha region.

Currently a single-track corridor shared by passenger and freight trains, the route will now be upgraded with a second parallel track, enabling two-way movement, reducing delays, and increasing freight and passenger capacity.

The project forms part of a broader Rs. 186.58 bn railway investment package covering over 1,247 kilometres of tracks across Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.

In addition to the track expansion, the project includes: 36 major bridges, 338 minor bridges, and 67 road under bridges (RUBs).

Modernisation of 29 railway stations The corridor passes close to Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary and Nawegaon National Park, enhancing tourism prospects. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called it a “historic moment” for Vidarbha. He also announced a 10-day ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit’ to promote cultural tourism in Maharashtra.

Source: Express News Service

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