New Delhi, May 13, 2026: The Union Cabinet has approved the Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)–Dholera Semi High Speed Double Line railway project, marking a major infrastructure push aimed at improving connectivity in Gujarat and strengthening regional economic development.
The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project, undertaken by the Ministry of Railways, involves an estimated investment of around ₹20,667 crore and is expected to be completed by 2030–31.
The proposed rail line will span approximately 134 kilometres and will be India’s first semi high speed railway project, developed using indigenously designed technology. It will provide faster connectivity between Ahmedabad, Dholera Special Investment Region, the upcoming Dholera airport and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex.
Officials said the new line will significantly reduce travel time, enabling smoother daily commuting and same day return travel between key economic and industrial zones. The corridor is also expected to improve mobility for nearby villages, benefiting an estimated population of around five lakh people across nearly 284 villages.
The project has been planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, with a focus on integrated infrastructure development, multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency. Authorities said it will also improve freight movement, reduce logistics costs and support industrial growth in the region.
Railways officials highlighted that the project is environmentally beneficial, with expected reductions in carbon emissions and fuel consumption, along with a significant contribution to India’s climate goals through lower dependence on road transport.
The semi high speed corridor is also expected to act as a model project for future expansion of similar rail networks across the country, supporting both economic activity and employment generation in the region.
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