Indian Railways approves new third line between Nimpura and Midnapur to reduce congestion
Indian Railways has officially sanctioned the construction of a 14.52-kilometer third railway line connecting the Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur station in West Bengal. This vital infrastructure project, approved on July 23, 2026, comes with an estimated investment of ₹440 crore. The development is aimed at resolving critical traffic bottlenecks in the Kharagpur division, where the existing tracks are currently operating at a staggering 115.71% capacity utilization.
Key highlights of the sanctioned project include:
- Project length spans 14.52 kilometers between Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur.
- Total sanctioned cost for the infrastructure upgrade is ₹440 crore.
- The route falls under the South Eastern Railway zone and is classified as a High Utilisation Network (HUN-2) corridor.
- Completion of the line is expected to facilitate an additional 3.52 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight traffic.
Boosting Capacity and Operational Efficiency
This strategic expansion is a major step in the national initiative to decongest high-density railway corridors. By adding a third line, the South Eastern Railway aims to provide much-needed operational flexibility, allowing for smoother movement of both passenger and goods trains. The current severe congestion often leads to delays, and this upgrade is expected to significantly improve the punctuality of daily commuter services across the region.
Beyond passenger convenience, the new line is set to play a pivotal role in the national economy. By streamlining the transport of essential commodities—including coal, iron ore, steel, cement, fertilizers, and petroleum products—the project will support industrial growth and ensure a more reliable supply chain. Indian Railways has stated that this investment is part of a broader vision to build a faster and future-ready railway system. As the network expands, the enhanced infrastructure will not only accommodate current traffic demands but also support the increasing logistical requirements of the country, ensuring better connectivity and long-term economic stability for the region.