The North Central Railway (NCR) has officially launched the Final Location Survey (FLS) for a proposed fourth railway line connecting the Naini and Manikpur section. This strategic infrastructure project, which commenced on July 21, 2026, aims to bolster rail capacity in anticipation of the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj while addressing the long-term growth in passenger and freight traffic across this vital corridor.
- Project Scope: Detailed assessment of land acquisition, construction challenges, and project costs.
- Strategic Connectivity: Focus on enhancing railway operations to support the Prayagraj super hub vision.
- Infrastructure Integration: Evaluation of necessary Railway Overbridges (ROBs) and Underbridges (RUBs) for the route.
- Future Planning: Data from this survey will form the basis for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) required for final approvals.
Strategic Infrastructure Expansion
According to Dr. Shivam Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NCR, the survey is currently in full swing. While the construction of the third line is already underway, the railway board has initiated this survey to determine the viability of adding a fourth track to handle future demand. Once the FLS is completed, the findings will decide the next steps for this ambitious project, which is designed to streamline train movements through the region.
Connecting the Dots in the Region
This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize rail connectivity around Prayagraj. On November 30, 2024, the government approved a third railway line between Manikpur and Prayagraj, spanning 84 kilometers with an estimated budget of ₹1,640 crore. This project is expected to reach completion within four years and requires approximately 149.3 hectares of land.
Parallel to these developments, the West Central Railway is finalizing a survey for a third line on the Itarsi-Manikpur section, a milestone highlighted by General Manager Shri Dilip Kumar Singh on May 4, 2026. Furthermore, commuters can expect significant relief with the ongoing work on the fourth line between Prayagraj Junction and Bamrauli, which features the city’s first rail flyover, slated for completion by December 2025. These concerted efforts underline the railway’s commitment to transforming Prayagraj into a major railway super hub, ensuring smoother transit for millions of pilgrims and passengers alike.