A high-level review meeting recently took place in Rianbari, Nagaur district, to assess the progress of the highly anticipated Pushkar-Merta City new railway line. While the project is moving forward, local villagers used the platform to reiterate their demand for a dedicated railway station at Kodiyo Mod, which is currently not included in the official project blueprint. The development of this rail link is a significant infrastructure push for Rajasthan, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.
Key highlights of the Pushkar-Merta rail project include:
• Project Cost: The initiative is sanctioned at an estimated cost of ₹799.64 crore.
• Project Status: Officially designated as a Special Railway Project by the Ministry of Railways.
• Timeline: Work began in January 2025, with a target completion date of December 31, 2028.
• Land Acquisition: Approximately 322 hectares of land is being acquired across Ajmer and Nagaur districts, with 80% completion reported in Nagaur by December 2025.
• Scope: The 51.34 km line will feature four new stations, including Nand, Riya, and Bhesda Kalan.
Project Overview and Development
This new rail line is designed to bridge the gap between Pushkar and Merta City, facilitating smoother travel and logistics across the region. Managed by the North Western Railway (NWR), the project is a collaborative effort supported by the Central Government. The first phase of construction, valued at approximately ₹100 crore, is currently underway. This initial package focuses on the essential groundwork, including the construction of underpasses, bridges, and station buildings starting from the Pushkar end.
The Demand for Kodiyo Mod Station
Despite the clear progress on the ground, the inclusion of Kodiyo Mod remains a point of contention for local residents. Although land acquisition notifications for the Kodiyo area were issued in January 2025, the village is not currently listed as one of the four proposed station sites. Villagers in the Rianbari region have expressed that a halt at Kodiyo Mod would significantly improve local accessibility and economic benefits for their community. As the project enters its critical construction phase, the railway authorities are balancing the technical requirements of the 51.34 km corridor with the growing feedback from the local population. With a three-year window left until the 2028 deadline, stakeholders hope to see the project reach its completion on time, transforming the transit landscape of Rajasthan.