India Approves Ahmedabad–Dholera Semi High-Speed Rail Project

Overview

India approved the Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)–Dholera Semi High-Speed Double Line rail project on 13 May 2026. The project is estimated to cost around ₹20,667 crore. It will add nearly 134 km of railway line in Gujarat. The corridor is planned as India’s first semi high-speed rail project developed with indigenous technology. The project will improve connectivity between Ahmedabad, Dholera, and major industrial zones in Gujarat.

India’s First Indigenous Semi High-Speed Rail Project

The new railway corridor marks an important step in India’s transport and infrastructure development.

The project has been designed using Indian technology and engineering systems. It aims to strengthen modern rail travel while supporting industrial growth in Gujarat.

The railway line will connect important economic and industrial areas.

Route and Connectivity of the Project

The corridor will connect several major locations in Gujarat.

Key Connected Areas

• Ahmedabad

• Dholera Special Investment Region

• Upcoming Dholera Airport

• Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex

The project will improve passenger and business travel in the Ahmedabad–Dholera region.

Speed and Travel Time

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The rail corridor is designed for operations up to 220 kmph. Trains are expected to run at a speed of 200 kmph during regular services.

Major Travel Benefit

• Travel time between Sabarmati and Dholera will reduce to around 48 minutes.

This will make transportation faster and more efficient.

Project Cost and Timeline

The total estimated project cost is around Rs20,667 crore.

Important Project Details

• Railway line length: Around 134 km

• Project type: Semi high-speed double line

• Target completion year: 2030–31

The project is expected to support economic development and logistics efficiency.

PM Gati Shakti Connection

The project is linked with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.

This national plan focuses on improving multimodal connectivity and logistics systems across India.

The railway corridor is expected to strengthen industrial transport and passenger mobility in Gujarat.

Importance of Dholera Special Investment Region

Dholera Special Investment Region is one of India’s major planned industrial zones.

The region is being developed as a