Ahmedabad, May 14 (APAC Media): In a major push to modernise railway infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved India’s first semi high-speed rail project between Ahmedabad (Sarkhej) and Dholera in Gujarat.
The double-line railway corridor will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs. 20,667 crore using indigenously developed technology.
The ambitious project aims to provide faster and more efficient connectivity between Ahmedabad, the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), the upcoming Dholera Airport, and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex (NHMC). Once operational, the corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Ahmedabad and Dholera, making comfortable daily commuting and same-day return travel possible.
Reacting to the Cabinet decision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X, “Today’s Cabinet decision on the Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)-Dholera Semi High-Speed Double Line project is a landmark in India’s rail modernisation journey. Built with indigenously developed technology, this first-of-its-kind project will boost connectivity, reduce travel time and support growth in Gujarat.” He added that the project would strengthen Dholera’s emergence as “a major centre of opportunity, enterprise and future-ready infrastructure.”
Officials said the project will serve as a model for the phased expansion of semi high-speed rail networks across the country. It is being seen as a landmark initiative in India’s railway modernisation efforts and aligns with the government’s broader vision of building world-class transport infrastructure.
Planned under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the project focuses on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency through integrated planning and coordination among stakeholders. The railway line is expected to improve the movement of passengers, goods and services while strengthening economic activity in the region.
The new railway section will add nearly 134 kilometres to the Indian Railways network and will directly benefit around 284 villages in the Ahmedabad district, covering a population of nearly five lakh people.
The government believes the project will promote comprehensive regional development and generate employment and self-employment opportunities, contributing to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. The enhanced connectivity is also expected to support industrial growth and tourism in Gujarat, particularly around Dholera and the heritage site of Lothal.
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