Jharkhand’s Rail Network Surges Ahead: More Tracks Laid Than UAE, Budget Witnesses 16-Fold Increase

Ranchi: Jharkhand is witnessing unprecedented progress in its railway infrastructure, marked by massive budget allocations, network expansion, station redevelopment, full electrification, and the introduction of modern train services. These initiatives are not only enhancing passenger convenience but also accelerating the state’s overall development.

Addressing journalists from offices across Eastern India via video conference from New Delhi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that all these developments are in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India. He highlighted that the state has received a record budget allocation, which will strengthen rail connectivity and catalyze holistic growth.

16-Fold Budget Increase

During 2009–14, the annual average railway budget allocation for Jharkhand was ₹457 crore. For 2026–27, it has surged to ₹7,536 crore—an increase of nearly 16 times.

Massive Infrastructure Development

Currently, projects worth ₹63,470 crore are underway in the state. These include new track construction, station redevelopment, and safety-related works, covering the entire state.

Amrit Station Scheme: Redevelopment of 57 Stations

Under the Amrit Station Scheme, 57 railway stations in Jharkhand are set for complete redevelopment, with an investment of ₹2,153 crore. Eight stations—Govindpur Road (Phase I), Rajmahal, Sankarpur, Sahebganj, Madhupur, Godda, Lohardaga, and Piska—have already been upgraded.

Enhanced Rail Connectivity

Jharkhand has seen a significant improvement in travel facilities with the expansion of premium train services. Currently, 12 pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains and 4 pairs of Amrit Bharat Express trains are operational in the state.

Jharkhand’s Rail Network Now Larger Than UAE’s

Since 2014, Jharkhand has laid approximately 1,400 km of new railway tracks—more than the entire rail network of the United Arab Emirates. Full electrification of the state’s railway network has been achieved, including electrification of 946 km of lines since 2014. Additionally, 486 flyovers and underpasses have been constructed.

Kavach Safety Project

Under the Kavach project, 917 works/tenders are in progress while 1,907 works have been approved. This expansion and modernization of railway infrastructure marks a significant step toward a safer, modern, and more efficient rail transport system in Jharkhand.