Govt Clears Rs 25 Billion Rail Line Between Itarsi and Nagpur
06 Aug 2025 CW Team
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a fourth railway line between Itarsi and Nagpur, aiming to strengthen connectivity across central India.
The project will span approximately 297 kilometres, benefiting districts such as Narmadapuram, Betul, and Pandhurna in Madhya Pradesh, and Nagpur in Maharashtra. It is expected to facilitate smoother travel to key Jyotirlinga pilgrimage sites including Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, Srisailam, and Rameswaram, thereby boosting religious tourism and cultural ties.
The 339 kilometre track will feature 37 stations, 36 major bridges, 415 minor bridges, two road overbridges, 74 road underbridges, four tunnels, and two rail overbridges. It will link to the Mumbai–Howrah High Density Network at Nagpur and help reduce congestion, particularly in the Ghat section between Maramjhiri and Dharakhoh.
This development complements the ongoing third-line project valued at Rs 25.26 billion. Land acquisition may be required from 40 villages in the Betul district, mirroring previous phases. The project aligns with the goals of the National Infrastructure Pipeline and Gati Shakti programme, enhancing passenger and freight movement, encouraging regional industrial development, and generating significant employment during construction and operation.