Cabinet clears ₹2,229 crore for quadrupling Gummidipoondi-Gudur rail line
The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved ₹2,229 crore for the construction of the third and fourth railway lines between Gummidipoondi in Tamil Nadu and Gudur in Andhra Pradesh. The decision was announced alongside four other railway projects across the country, taking the total sanctioned outlay to approximately ₹13,000 crore.
The Gummidipoondi–Gudur section currently operates as a double line, serving as a critical link on both the New Delhi–Chennai and Howrah–Chennai high-density routes. The addition of two more tracks is aimed at easing congestion and enhancing passenger and freight movement on these busy corridors.
According to an official press release, the project forms part of the Vizag–Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC) and contributes to the broader East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC), which is India's first coastal corridor. The ECEC is expected to spur industrial development along the eastern seaboard, connecting manufacturing hubs with ports and markets.
The quadrupling of this section is seen as a strategic move to support growing economic activity in the region. By increasing rail capacity, the project is likely to improve logistics efficiency, reduce transit times, and lower transportation costs for businesses and commuters alike.
While the official statement did not specify a timeline for completion, such projects typically involve land acquisition, engineering surveys, and phased construction. The approved funds will cover the cost of laying the new lines, along with associated infrastructure such as signalling systems, bridges, and station upgrades.
This approval is part of a broader push by the central government to modernise India's railway network and expand its capacity. The other four projects approved on Wednesday are expected to be detailed separately by the Ministry of Railways. Together, these initiatives reflect a continued focus on enhancing connectivity in both passenger and freight segments.
The decision comes at a time when the government has been prioritising infrastructure development as a means to stimulate economic growth and create employment. The Gummidipoondi–Gudur project, in particular, is expected to benefit industries along the Chennai–Vizag belt, including automotive, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, which rely heavily on efficient rail transport.
Local residents and businesses have often raised concerns about delays and congestion on the existing double line, especially with the increase in freight traffic in recent years. The new lines are likely to address these issues, offering more reliable and faster services.
The project also aligns with the central government's vision of a self-reliant India, as it strengthens domestic supply chains by reducing dependence on road transport for long-haul movement. With the Eastern Coastal Corridor being developed as an export hub, the enhanced railway infrastructure is expected to play a pivotal role in integrating regional economies with global markets.
As the work progresses, further details regarding implementation and expected completion are anticipated. The Ministry of Railways will likely oversee the tendering and construction process, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
