Ramganj Mandi-Bhopal rail line: 157.5 km work completed, travel time to decrease by 3 hours

The Ministry of Railways has shared a major update on the Ramganj Mandi-Bhopal new rail line project. This 276.50 km long project is designed to improve connectivity between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. As of April 25, 2026, the ministry confirmed that 157.5 km of construction work is already finished.

What are the main benefits of this new rail line?

• The travel time between Bhopal and Kota will decrease by 2 to 3 hours.
• The rail route from Jaipur to South India will become shorter by about 115 km, saving around 3 hours of travel.
• Coal transport for the Kalisindh Thermal Plant will be shortened by 42 km.
• Direct rail connectivity will be available for Kota, Jhalawar, Rajgarh, Sehore, and Bhopal districts.

What is the current status and timeline of the project?

The project started on October 9, 2004, with an estimated cost of ₹3,035 crore. While the Ministry of Railways reported 157.5 km completion, other reports suggest up to 187 km of track is ready, including sections from Nishatpura to Shyampur and Ramganj Mandi to Rajgarh. A successful speed trial of 130 kmph was conducted on the Khilchipur-Rajgarh section in March 2026.