Centre Approves ₹4,986 Crore Fourth Rail Line for Itarsi-Nagpur Route.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has greenlit the construction of a fourth railway line between Itarsi and Nagpur. The project, valued at approximately ₹4,986 crore, is set to significantly enhance railway connectivity across Central India.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav extended his gratitude to the Prime Minister, noting that the new line will benefit key areas, including Narmadapuram, Betul, and Pandhurna in Madhya Pradesh, as well as Nagpur in Maharashtra.

The 297 km line will not only ease congestion but also improve connectivity for pilgrims. It will serve as a crucial link for devotees traveling to four major Jyotirlinga temples: Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu.

The new infrastructure will feature 37 stations, 36 major bridges, 415 minor bridges, four tunnels, and numerous road over and under bridges. This addition will join the Mumbai-Howrah High Density Network at Nagpur, complementing the existing double line and the ongoing third line construction.

The Itarsi-Nagpur section is currently one of the most congested routes, particularly in the Ghat section. The fourth line is expected to drastically increase capacity, reduce delays, and allow for more frequent train services. Officials say the project aligns with the goals of the National Infrastructure Pipeline and Gati Shakti initiatives.

The construction phase is expected to create substantial employment opportunities. While a portion of the project will require land acquisition from an estimated 40 villages in the Betul district, it promises to establish a modern transport connection that will benefit both passenger and freight services, and boost the regional economy.