Travel time for trains from Chennai to Hyderabad & Kolkata set to come down

The Union cabinet's recent decision to greenlight two railway line doubling projects is set to significantly reduce travel time between Chennai and Hyderabad, as well as between Chennai and Kolkata, according to a report in the Times of India.

These strategic ventures form part of seven multi-track projects, collectively costing Rs 32,500 crore.


One of the approved projects involves the doubling of the 239km railway line connecting Guntur to Bibinagar in Andhra Pradesh. This initiative is poised to slash 76km off the Chennai-Hyderabad route, delivering swifter travel times and bolstering the potential for more train services.

Meanwhile, the proposed third line on the Cuttack-Vizianagaram route is set to address delays and facilitate the operation of additional trains on this crucial passage.

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the doubling of the Guntur-Bibi Nagar line will require an investment of Rs 3,238 crore. This move is expected to enhance railway operations, notably the Vande Bharat services, along the Chennai-Hyderabad route. Vaishnaw emphasised the abundant opportunities for express and goods trains on this route, underscoring its capacity for growth.

He stated, "Presently a single line section, this route grapples with congestion. The Bibi Nagar-Guntur section accommodates just one pair of Chennai-bound trains. The anticipated benefits include a substantial reduction of over one hour in travel time for Chennai-bound passenger trains. Additionally, the cost per goods rake will witness a reduction of approximately Rs 3-5 lakh, fostering a surge in demand due to its potential for cement and other goods transportation."

Likewise, the approval for the Rs 5,000 crore third line project on the Cuttack-Vizianagaram stretch is a significant step forward. The new line, spanning Nergundi and Barang (22km) and Khurda Road and Vizianagaram (363km) on the Bhadrak-Vizianagaram section, is anticipated to strengthen the vital Chennai-Kolkata route.

Minister Vaishnaw underscored, "This development will particularly benefit the east-south trunk route from Chennai to Kolkata. Additionally, plans are underway to prepare a comprehensive project report for the Vizag to Chennai line."

With these substantial investments in railway infrastructure, the Union cabinet's decision is poised to usher in a new era of more efficient and well-connected rail travel, unlocking immense potential for economic and regional growth.