PM Modi Inaugurates Western Dedicated Freight Corridor’s New Section for Faster Goods Transport

October 31, 2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone on Monday as he dedicated the 77-kilometer New Bhandu-New Sanand section of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) to the nation. This development is poised to accelerate the transportation of goods from ports and manufacturing hubs in the region. Additionally, the shift of sixty goods trains from passenger rail routes to the freight corridor has led to quicker movement of passenger trains.

Reduced Travel Time

One of the notable outcomes of this project is the reduction in travel time for the Ahmedabad-Delhi Rajdhani Express by nearly one hour, as confirmed by a senior official from the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL).

Enhanced Connectivity

The new section of the DFC significantly enhances connectivity with major ports in Gujarat, including Pipavav, Porbandar, and Jamnagar. This improved linkage facilitates faster movement of Exim (export-import) traffic and reduces transit times.

Furthermore, the newly inaugurated section has boosted connectivity to vital freight terminals such as Viramgam, Jakhwada, Detroj, Linch, and freight loading centers in the Jamnagar area.

The new section also provides expeditious connectivity to the dairy industry in Anand, the oil refinery in Jamnagar, and links to the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor, further bolstering economic activities in the region.

Infrastructure Highlights

The 77-kilometer section includes 19 major bridges, 105 minor bridges, five rail flyovers, 81 road under-bridges (eliminating level crossings), and six road over-bridges. Additionally, there are 24 kilometers of connecting rail lines. The total project cost for this section stands at approximately Rs 3,184 crore.

Enabling Heavy and Long-Haul Trains

One noteworthy achievement of the DFC is the operation of heavy and long-haul trains with a 25-tonne axle load on bridges and formations designed for a 32.5-tonne axle load, a first in India. The double-line electrified track will enable the DFC to transport more freight at faster speeds.

Impressive Average Speeds

The DFC has achieved impressive average speeds, with the highest recorded at 99.82 kilometers per hour. This infrastructure development signifies a significant leap in India’s transportation and logistics capabilities, ultimately contributing to economic growth and efficiency.

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