Indian Railways Accelerates Network Expansion with New Third Line Between Aunrihar and Varanasi to Boost Passenger and Freight Traffic Efficiency

Indian Railways has authorized the development of a dedicated third rail line between Aunrihar and Varanasi City under the North Eastern Railway zone. This section, which currently manages substantial passenger and freight traffic, handles crucial commodities such as cement, coal, food grains, iron, steel, and various industrial materials. The addition of a third line will play a pivotal role in improving operational efficiency on this busy route. It is expected to introduce an additional 7.13 trains in each direction every day, while also accommodating a freight growth of 1.99 million tons per annum. These upgrades will enhance overall fluidity, allowing for a smoother flow of both passenger and freight traffic.

Upon completion, the capacity of the current rail line, which is already operating at 87.93% of its capacity, will increase significantly, surpassing 102%. This expansion will substantially alleviate congestion, improve punctuality, and offer a more reliable travel experience for millions of passengers who rely on this critical corridor. Additionally, the improved infrastructure will help support the growing demand for freight transportation, which is key to sustaining economic activities in the region. Industries in eastern Uttar Pradesh and surrounding areas, in particular, will benefit from improved logistics capabilities, ensuring more efficient trade and better connectivity across the region.

This third line addition is part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the Indian railway network. With rapid urbanization and industrial growth, transportation networks need to evolve in tandem to keep up with rising demands. By focusing on boosting the capacity of high-traffic routes like the Aunrihar–Varanasi City line, Indian Railways is positioning itself to accommodate future traffic growth while minimizing delays, enhancing safety, and improving service standards for both freight and passenger services. This initiative will also have a long-term economic impact, particularly on the supply chain and logistics sectors, which are essential to the regional economy.

Another major project aimed at improving railway infrastructure is the doubling of the Ringas–Sikar section in Rajasthan, under the jurisdiction of North Western Railway. This project will bring about a significant increase in capacity on this vital regional route. The anticipated upgrade will introduce five additional trains per direction each day and facilitate a freight traffic increase of 2.36 million tons per annum. This enhancement is expected to improve the overall speed and reliability of passenger and freight services along this route.

The Ringas–Sikar route is a key part of the transportation network in Rajasthan, connecting various industrial hubs and important pilgrimage sites. The increased capacity and faster trains will allow passengers and freight to move more efficiently across the region, benefitting not only travelers but also businesses that rely on rail transport for moving goods. With the projected rise in capacity utilization from 77% to an impressive 210% by the 2029–30 period, the doubling of this section will ensure that the railway network can handle the anticipated future traffic demands.

Furthermore, this capacity increase will strengthen connectivity across Rajasthan’s industrial and pilgrimage zones. Areas such as Khatu Shyamji and Salasar Balaji, which attract large numbers of visitors each year, will benefit from more frequent and faster services. The improved infrastructure will ensure that goods can be moved more quickly, and passengers can enjoy faster, more reliable train services. Local businesses will see a reduction in transportation costs, and the overall economy of the region will benefit from improved logistical efficiency.

In addition to the upgrades in the northern and western regions, the Ujjain bypass line project under Western Railway is another significant development in Indian Railways’ efforts to modernize and expand its network. This project will provide a vital diversion around Ujjain Junction, removing the need for trains to reverse, which will drastically improve sectional capacity and operational efficiency. The Ujjain bypass will streamline train movements and reduce delays that often occur at the junction, which is a major hub for both passenger and freight services.

The Ujjain bypass line will be especially beneficial for religious and tourist traffic, particularly in light of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2028. This event, which attracts millions of devotees each year, places enormous pressure on the existing railway network. With the new bypass line, trains can move seamlessly without reversing at the junction, improving the overall efficiency of services. Devotees traveling to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and other prominent religious sites will experience faster and more reliable services. The project is not only critical for meeting the demands of pilgrims but will also accommodate growing tourist traffic to the region.

Overall, the Ujjain bypass project will help address both current and future demands for passenger and freight services. By improving train movements and reducing delays, it will support faster transit times for commuters, enhance operational reliability, and ensure smoother handling of both daily services and peak seasonal traffic. For locals, commuters, and pilgrims alike, this will translate to improved travel experiences, with greater service resilience, especially during peak times like religious festivals. These infrastructure projects will ultimately support economic growth, increase job opportunities, and enhance regional connectivity, benefiting a wide range of stakeholders.

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