Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line to boost regional transit

The Indian government has approved the Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line, a 339-km project designed to enhance pilgrim access and regional connectivity across three states. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line to support key pilgrimage routes

The new rail corridor will link Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Sriksailam in Andhra Pradesh, and Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. These locations are home to Jyotirlinga temples, attracting thousands of devotees annually. The Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line will streamline travel to these spiritual hubs and improve regional mobility.

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This route will include 37 stations, 36 major bridges, 419 minor bridges, four tunnels, and several road overpasses and underpasses. At Nagpur, it will connect with the Mumbai-Howrah High Density Network, completing the double-track system and supplementing the partially built third line.

Capacity upgrades through the Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line

Authorities aim to increase capacity and efficiency in the Nagpur sector, especially in the hilly Ghat region between Marmoribira and Dharmabad. Construction in this area is already underway as part of the third line project, which spans 27 stations and includes 1.4 km of tunneling. The current phase has a total value of approximately $303 million, after converting ₹2,523 crore.

With the fourth line in place, Indian Railways can reduce delays and improve train frequency, aligning with the broader Gati Shakti and National Infrastructure Pipeline goals. The project also supports freight movement and economic growth.

However, construction will require land from 40 villages in Betul district, affecting roughly 1,606 hectares. This step poses logistical and community challenges, but it also presents job opportunities both during construction and operation. Engineers will use modern construction techniques to ensure quality and efficiency.

Source, photo: infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com

FAQ

What is the Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line project?

It is a new 339-km railway expansion approved to improve regional connectivity and enhance access to pilgrimage destinations like Omkareshwar and Rameshwaram.

How will the Itarsi-Nagpur fourth rail line improve transportation?

It will reduce delays, boost capacity, and support the Mumbai-Howrah corridor by closing infrastructure gaps in the Nagpur sector.

Will the project impact local communities?

Yes, it involves land acquisition across 40 villages, but also promises employment and economic benefits through improved transport infrastructure.

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