Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday (August 12) unveiled details of the ambitious Jalna – Jalgaon new rail line project. The project involves constructing a new rail line extending 174 kilometers from Jalna to Jalgaon, with an investment of Rs 7,106 crores. This cost will be equally shared between the State Government and the Railways.
This significant initiative aims to boost regional connectivity and economic growth between Marathwada and North Maharashtra. The development is expected to create 60 lakh man-days of employment and achieve a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions—by 54 crore kilograms—equivalent to planting 2.2 crore trees.
Jalna to Jalgaon rail distance to be reduced to 174 km
Vaishnaw informed that the new rail line will slash the travel distance between Jalna and Jalgaon by nearly 50%, reducing it from 336 kilometers to just 174 kilometers. This improvement will greatly enhance connectivity between Marathwada, North Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and the coastal regions of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
A standout feature of the project will be India’s longest transport tunnel, spanning 23.5 kilometers. The development will require the acquisition of 935 hectares of land and is projected to be completed within 4 to 5 years.
Enhancing port activities and tourism
The new rail line will also bolster port connectivity, streamline the transportation of key agricultural products such as soybeans and cotton, and support industries including fertilizer and cement.
Additionally, the project will enhance tourism by improving access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ajanta Caves.