The Indian Railways is reviewing the proposal for a new broad gauge line connecting Sagar and Chhindwara. This project will span approximately 279.37 km and aim to link the Bundelkhand, Mahakaushal, and Satpura regions of Madhya Pradesh. The line is expected to improve travel time and support local trade and education.
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What is the current status of the Sagar-Chhindwara rail line
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that the construction cost for the original plan was very high due to hilly and forested areas. To manage the budget, the ministry decided to prepare a new Detailed Project Report (DPR) to find a more cost-effective route. MP Bunty Vivek Sahu has also urged the ministry to start the work quickly based on the revised survey announced in the railway budget.
Project details and expected impact
The project has been a long-standing demand since 1970, with a survey completed in 2017. If the line is extended to Gwalior, it could reduce travel distances by about 525 km and make Chhindwara a major railway hub. The estimated cost for the initial 279.37 km stretch was ₹4,805 crore as per 2019 data.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 279.37 KM |
| Estimated Cost (2019) | ₹4,805 Crore |
| Regions Linked | Bundelkhand, Mahakaushal, Satpura |
| Key Cities | Sagar, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is a new survey being conducted for the Sagar-Chhindwara line?
The original route passed through hilly and forested terrain, making construction costs very high. A new survey will identify a more cost-effective route.
How will this project benefit the region?
It will directly connect Bundelkhand, Mahakaushal, and Satpura regions, reducing travel time and boosting agriculture and economic activities.