Whalesbook
Dholera: A Future Manufacturing Hub
Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR) is being developed as a key manufacturing and industrial center. The new rail line is integral to this vision, providing crucial connectivity to planned facilities including an international airport and semiconductor plants. It will also link to the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex, enhancing logistical capabilities.
Project Scope and Engineering
The 134-km double-line corridor is slated for completion within four years at a total cost of ₹20,667 crore. It will feature 13 stations. A significant portion, 74 km, will be elevated on viaducts. The project includes three mega bridges, 39 road under bridges, and two rail over bridges, showcasing complex engineering.
Integrated Transit Network
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the project's strategic integration. It will connect with the Metro at Sabarmati, Gandhigram, and Vastrapur stations, and link to the proposed Bullet Train station at Sabarmati. Furthermore, a connection to a dedicated freight corridor at Maraiyya near Sanand is planned, creating a multimodal transit hub.
Setting a Precedent
"This is the first project of its kind. It will become the template for the other semi-high-speed projects," stated Vaishnaw. Vande Bharat trains, India's current fastest at 130 kmph, will also operate on this new corridor. India is also developing its own 250 kmph high-speed trains at BEML facilities. The route follows the Ahmedabad-Dholera expressway, with officials anticipating minimal land acquisition challenges due to an available 30-meter wide corridor.