Ranchi: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday said Jharkhand has been allocated ₹7,536 crore in the Union Budget 2026–27 to accelerate railway development in the state. Addressing the media via video conference, the minister said the allocation will significantly boost connectivity and passenger services across Jharkhand.
Key highlights
- Budget allocation: ₹7,536 crore for 2026–27
- Projects underway: ₹63,470 crore
- New tracks since 2014: ~1,400 km
- Stations to be redeveloped: 57 under Amrit Station Scheme
- New train services: Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat expansions, including Dhanbad–Coimbatore route
Major investments underway
Vaishnaw said railway projects worth ₹63,470 crore are currently underway in Jharkhand, covering new lines, track doubling, electrification, and station redevelopment. He added that several long‑pending connectivity projects are now moving forward, with detailed project reports being prepared and approvals in progress.
Train services expansion
The minister announced a major expansion in premium and semi‑premium train services:
- More than 12 Vande Bharat trains have been allocated to Jharkhand.
- Four Amrit Bharat trains are currently operating in the state.
- Two more Amrit Bharat trains are planned, with one already approved on the Dhanbad–Coimbatore route, which is expected to start soon.
Rail infrastructure development
According to a Railways statement, Jharkhand’s rail network has expanded rapidly over the past decade:
- Around 1,400 km of new railway tracks have been constructed in the state since 2014.
- 57 stations have been identified for redevelopment under the Amrit Station Scheme, with a total investment of ₹2,153 crore aimed at upgrading passenger amenities and station infrastructure.
What this means for Jharkhand
Officials said the increased budgetary support will help improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and support economic activity in mining, industry, and tourism hubs across the state. The expansion of modern train services and station upgrades is also expected to enhance passenger comfort and safety.
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