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2 min readUpdated: Jan 29, 2026 05:51 PM IST
The Baikunth-Urkura 4th railway line project falls under the administrative control of the South East Central (SEC) Railway. (Image generated using AI)
Howrah-Mumbai railway line, Howrah-Mumbai railway route: The Ministry of Railways on Thursday sanctioned the construction of a fourth railway line between Baikunth and Urkura. This 26.40-km-long new railway line will improve train connectivity on the busy Howrah-Mumbai high-density railway network. The project is an important part of the Bilaspur–Raipur–Nagpur main line and falls under the administrative control of the South East Central (SEC) Railway.
Baikunth–Urkura fourth railway line
This rail project has been identified under the Energy, Cement and Mineral Corridor. “The work has been identified under the Energy, Cement and Mineral Corridor, reflecting Indian Railways’ continued focus on strengthening infrastructure in high-traffic and economically critical regions,” the Ministry of Railways said.
Baikunth to Urkura fourth railway line
The Baikunth to Urkura fourth railway line will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 426.01 crore. This new rail line will further ease congestion and enhance the smooth movement of trains. Presently, the Baikunth–Urkura section is operating with saturated capacity, underscoring the urgent need for capacity expansion.
Significance of Baikunth-Urkura fourth railway line
The Baikunth-Urkura fourth railway line will create capacity for additional passenger and coaching services. It will also reduce delays, and improve punctuality on this heavily utilised section.
Apart from these, the Baikunth-Urkura fourth railway line is also expected to facilitate additional freight traffic of approximately 14.25 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). “This increase in freight handling capacity is projected to generate additional annual earnings of about ₹61.70 crore for Indian Railways, starting from the first year of commissioning,” the national transporter said in a release.
The region along the Mumbai–Howrah high-density railway network has witnessed rapid expansion of power plants, coal mines, steel and cement units. It also sees the development of new and allied industries. Thus, the new rail line will ensure faster and more reliable transportation of bulk commodities, supporting industrial growth and strengthening supply chains.
Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More
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