Major Budget Boost for Railway Infrastructure in Chhattisgarh
Bilaspur : Chhattisgarh has received a historic budget allocation of ₹6,925 crore for railway infrastructure and passenger facilities in the Union Budget 2025-26, marking a 22-fold increase compared to the previous annual average of ₹311 crore (2009-14). The significant boost reflects the strong commitment of the central government and the crucial efforts of Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu in securing these funds for the state’s development.
Unprecedented Growth in Railway Network
Chhattisgarh’s railway infrastructure has witnessed remarkable expansion:
New Track Construction: Since 2014, the state has added 1,125 km of new tracks, surpassing the entire rail network of the UAE.
Ongoing Projects: 26 new track projects covering 2,768 km have been sanctioned at a cost of ₹38,378 crore. This includes the Sardega – Bhalumuda New Double Line project (₹1,360 crore).
Electrification: The state has achieved 100% railway electrification, covering 350 km since 2014.
FACT BOX: CHHATTISGARH’S RAILWAY GROWTH
Annual Railway Budget Allocation: Increased from ₹311 crore (2009-14) to ₹6,925 crore (2025-26) – a 22-fold increase.
New Tracks Added Per Year: Increased from 6 km (2009-14) to 102 km (2014-25) – a 17-fold rise.
Electrification: From 0 km before 2014 to 350 km, making Chhattisgarh 100% electrified.
Enhanced Passenger Amenities and Station Redevelopment
A total of 32 stations are being redeveloped under the Amrit Station scheme with a budget of ₹1,672 crore. Key stations undergoing major development include:
Raipur (₹463 Cr): MMTH building foundation work in progress.
Durg (₹456 Cr): Dismantling of old buildings and utility shifting underway.
Bilaspur (₹435 Cr): Barricading and tree-cutting approvals in process.
FACT BOX: PASSENGER AMENITIES UPGRADE
20 Lifts installed at key stations.
8 Escalators added for passenger convenience.
119 Stations equipped with Wi-Fi access.
2 Vande Bharat Trains operational, serving 5 districts with 6 unique stoppages.
Safety & Modernization Initiatives
148 rail flyovers & under-bridges constructed since 2014, easing congestion and improving safety.
Kavach safety system implemented across 1,105 Route KM, with 365 KM under progress.
A Landmark Moment for Chhattisgarh’s Rail Infrastructure
With the support of Shri Tokhan Sahu, this budget allocation is set to revolutionize railway infrastructure in Chhattisgarh, enhancing connectivity, boosting passenger comfort, and driving economic growth in the region.