Indian Railways has achieved a historic milestone in Gujarat with unprecedented budgetary support and rapid infrastructure development, ushering in a new era of safe, modern and passenger-centric rail transport across the state. In this regard, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics and IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressed a press conference today.

Addressing the media virtually, the Union Railway Minister stated that the average annual railway budget allocation for Gujarat during 2009–14 was ₹589 crore, which has increased to ₹17,366 crore in the 2026–27 period. This nearly 29-fold increase reflects the Government’s strong commitment to strengthening rail infrastructure and connectivity in the state.

Priority to Infrastructure Development

The Union Railway Minister informed that railway infrastructure projects worth ₹1,28,748 crore are currently underway in Gujarat. These include track construction, station redevelopment and major safety upgrades, ensuring long-term capacity enhancement and improved operational efficiency across the network.

He further stated, “A new route of the Dedicated Freight Corridor is the Western Freight Corridor, connecting Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Punjab. At Surat, the Eastern and Western Freight Corridors will be connected, and a junction will also be developed there.”

Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw added, “This East- West corridor will connect ports along Gujarat’s western coast. It will also link Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Gujarat has achieved 100% electrification. Construction work is underway at 87 stations. The Ahmedabad–Mumbai High-Speed Rail (Bullet Train) project is progressing very well. Tomorrow, the second tunnel breakthrough will take place. Commercial operations are targeted for next year. The team is working tirelessly under the constant guidance and review of the Prime Minister. The Bullet Train project is extremely important for the country, featuring new construction methods, advanced technologies and a distinct track system.”

Amrit Station Scheme: Transforming Railway Stations

Under the Amrit Station Scheme, 87 railway stations in Gujarat have been identified for comprehensive redevelopment with a total investment of ₹6,058 crore. Redevelopment work has been completed at 19 stations, including Dakor, Hapa, Jam Jodhpur, Morbi, Okha, Palitana and Porbandar, significantly enhancing passenger amenities and station aesthetics.

Enhanced Connectivity with Premium Trains

The introduction of modern train services has greatly improved passenger convenience and travel efficiency in Gujarat. Currently, the state operates:

            •           5 Vande Bharat Express trains

            •           1 Amrit Bharat Express

            •           1 Namo Bharat Express

These services offer faster, safer and more comfortable travel options for passengers.

Network Expansion and 100% Electrification

Since 2014, Gujarat’s railway network has expanded rapidly with the construction of approximately 2,900 km of new railway tracks, exceeding the total rail network length of several European countries. The state has also achieved 100% electrification, covering 4,005 km of rail lines, contributing to greener and more energy-efficient operations.

Additionally, 1,177 flyovers and underpasses have been constructed to eliminate level crossings, enhancing safety and easing road-rail movement.

Strengthening Rail Safety with Kavach

As part of its safety-first approach, Indian Railways is implementing the indigenous ‘Kavach’ Automatic Train Protection System in Gujarat. Against the approved 1,842 route kilometres, Kavach has already been deployed on 96 route kilometres, while work or tenders are in progress for 1,674 route kilometres, marking a significant advancement in rail safety standards.

With record investments, modern stations, premium train services, complete electrification and advanced safety systems, Indian Railways continues to play a pivotal role in Gujarat’s infrastructure development and overall socio-economic growth.

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