Record Rs 173.66 bn Allocated for Rail Infrastructure in Gujarat

05 Mar 2026 CW Team

The Union Railway Minister announced a record allocation of Rs 173.66 billion (Rs 173.66 bn) for railway infrastructure in Gujarat in the 2026-27 fiscal, underscoring a significant increase compared with allocations during the UPA period. He noted that the previous allocation between 2009 and 2014 amounted to Rs 5.89 billion (Rs 5.89 bn), and that the enhanced funding is intended to modernise the state network. The minister presented the figures while speaking at the Gujarat Semiconnect Conference.

He said that work is underway on projects in the state worth Rs 1.28 trillion (Rs 1.28 tn) and stressed that these investments would accelerate development. The minister outlined that the budgetary increase will support a range of infrastructure initiatives and improved passenger amenities across the state. Officials are proceeding with planned upgrades and expansions at pace.

A total of 87 stations in Gujarat have been selected under the Amrit Station Scheme to be upgraded to world class standards, with 21 station projects completed to date. Rehabilitation work is reported to be progressing rapidly at key hubs including Ahmedabad, Sabarmati, Surat, Una and Somnath. The minister indicated that the renovated Ahmedabad station will offer enhanced facilities for passengers.

He also provided an update on the high-speed rail project, stating that preparations are underway to make the Bullet Train operational next year and that the Ahmedabad to Mumbai journey would take one hour 57 minutes at a design speed of 350 km per hour. The minister added that seven new high-speed routes have been approved by the prime minister to expand connectivity in future. He attributed the faster progress of state projects to cooperative efforts within Gujarat.

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