Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a significant allocation of Rs 14,700 crore for the development of railways in Madhya Pradesh on Sunday. The announcement was made during a virtual event where the minister flagged off a new train service from Jaura to Kailaras in the Morena district, marking the successful conversion of the route from narrow gauge to broad gauge.
Joining Vaishnaw in the event were Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and MP Assembly Speaker Narendra Tomar, both of whom symbolically waved green flags as the train departed from Jaura station.
Progress in Railway Infrastructure
In his address, Vaishnaw highlighted the advancements in the railway infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh, noting that five Vande Bharat trains are currently operational in the state. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made, with the completion of 222 kilometers of new rail lines, 1,200 kilometers of multi-tracking, and 707 kilometers of gauge conversion.
The minister elaborated on the ongoing gauge conversion project for the Gwalior-Sheopurkalan narrow gauge track, which spans 188 kilometers and is being undertaken at a cost of Rs 2,355 crore. The recently converted 61-kilometer route between Jaura and Kailaras is expected to enhance connectivity in the region, with the entire gauge conversion project set to be completed by July 2025.
Vaishnaw emphasized the socio-economic benefits of the gauge conversion, stating it will stimulate industrial growth, create employment opportunities, and reduce both transportation costs and travel time for residents of Morena.
In addition to improving railway connectivity, the minister noted the incorporation of modern technology such as drones and GPS trackers for disaster management and project monitoring. The redevelopment of key railway stations, including Gwalior and Khajuraho, is also underway to enhance passenger services and infrastructure.