Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited Rajasthan on May 22, 2026, to announce a massive overhaul of the state’s rail network. With a budget of ₹10,228 crore, the government is focusing on upgrading stations and improving connectivity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also virtually inaugurated several redeveloped stations during a program in Bikaner.
📰: New Train Announcement: Indian Railways to run Katihar-Bhagalpur Special train from May 23।
What are the key infrastructure updates in Rajasthan
The state is seeing a major shift in how stations and cargo terminals operate. Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, 85 stations are being redeveloped, with 15 already completed including Jaisalmer and Barmer. Additionally, the government is building 25 Gati Shakti cargo terminals to help local trade, 12 of which are now operational.
| Project | Details | Status/Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Amrit Bharat Stations | 85 Stations | 15 Completed |
| Cargo Terminals | 25 Terminals | 12 Completed |
| Alwar Station | Modern Hub | ₹112 Crore |
| Coach Care Complex | Jaisalmer | ₹67 Crore |
| New Tracks | 3,900 km laid | Since 2014 |
Which new train services and speed upgrades are coming
Passengers will see more options and faster travel soon. The Jodhpur-Delhi Cantt Vande Bharat Express will increase to 20 coaches from May 24, 2026. New services now connect Bhuj to New Delhi via Jalore and Jaisalmer to Ahmedabad. The government also plans to increase the speed limit on the Jodhpur–Luni–Marwar Junction section to 130 kmph.
- Sabarmati-Jodhpur Superfast Express extended to Jaisalmer from May 23, 2026.
- 46 new train services added to the state in recent years.
- New Jodhpur to Haridwar service expected in the next 10 months.
- Doubling work ongoing on Ajmer-Chittorgarh and Sawai Madhopur-Jaipur sections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many stations are being redeveloped in Rajasthan?
A total of 85 stations are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with 15 stations like Jaisalmer and Barmer already completed.
What is the update on Vande Bharat Express in Rajasthan?
The Jodhpur-Delhi Cantt Vande Bharat Express is being expanded from 8 coaches to 20 coaches starting May 24, 2026, to handle more passengers.