Rail Ministry approves South Haryana Rail Corridor for Gujarat Port connectivity Breakthrough

The Indian Railways has approved the South Haryana Economic Corridor, a 129km semi-high-speed rail project connecting Haryana with Gujarat ports via Rajasthan. The project, estimated to cost Rs 1,225 crore, will provide direct connectivity to Kandla, Mundra, Navlakha, and Jakhau ports, and integrate with the Orbital Rail Corridor. In a strategic move to strengthen India’s logistics and trade infrastructure, the Rail Ministry has approved the development of the South Haryana Rail Corridor, aimed at enhancing connectivity between South Haryana and key Gujarat ports. This corridor is expected to streamline freight movement, reduce transit times, and foster economic growth by linking industrial hubs with major maritime gateways.

Policy Overview and Approval

The approval of the South Haryana Corridor aligns with the government’s broader vision to improve freight logistics under initiatives like the National Plan and the Dedicated Freight Corridor project. By developing dedicated rail infrastructure, the Rail Ministry seeks to optimize cargo transportation, reduce road congestion, and promote sustainable logistics. More details about these initiatives can be found on the (Indian Railways) Gujarat houses some of India’s largest and busiest ports, including Mundra, Kandla, and Pipavav, which handle a significant share of the country’s import-export cargo. Enhanced rail connectivity from Haryana to these ports will facilitate faster and cost-effective transportation of goods such as minerals, fertilizers, steel, and agricultural products.

Impact on Trade and Economic Growth

This connectivity is vital for manufacturers and exporters in Haryana and neighbouring states. The South Haryana Rail Corridor is expected to catalyze regional economic development by attracting investment and creating job opportunities along the corridor. Efficient cargo movement will boost competitiveness for exporters and reduce logistics costs, thereby benefiting industries ranging from textiles to pharmaceuticals. The corridor will also contribute to the government’s vision of doubling farmers’ income by improving the supply chain for agricultural produce. To explore government schemes supporting agriculture and trade, The corridor project will integrate modern infrastructure and technology, including electrified tracks and advanced signaling systems, to enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Challenges and Future Prospects

It will also be designed to handle double-stack container trains, increasing freight capacity and reducing carbon emissions. This development complements India’s commitment to green transportation and cleaner logistics. While the corridor promises significant benefits, challenges such as land acquisition, coordination between states, and timely execution need to be addressed. The Ministry is working closely with state governments and stakeholders to ensure smooth progress. The success of this corridor will pave the way for similar projects enhancing connectivity between inland regions and coastal ports, contributing to India’s emergence as a global manufacturing and export hub.

The Indian Ministry has approved the development of the South Haryana Corridor, a critical infrastructure project aimed at strengthening rail connectivity between South Haryana and major Gujarat ports. This corridor is expected to significantly improve freight movement efficiency, reduce transit times, and bolster trade by linking industrial and agricultural hubs in Haryana with key maritime gateways in Gujarat such as Mundra, Kandla, and Pipavav ports. (Ministry of Railways) Gujarat ports play a vital role in India’s import-export activities, handling a substantial volume of cargo, including minerals, steel, fertilizers, and agricultural produce.