In a major boost to Gujarat’s infrastructure and Dholera Smart City’s development, the Union Cabinet has approved the construction of the Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)–Dholera Semi High-Speed Double Rail Line Project at an estimated cost of ₹20,667 crore. The 134-kilometre corridor will become India’s first semi-high-speed railway project developed using indigenous technology.
The new rail corridor will directly connect Ahmedabad, Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), the upcoming Dholera International Airport, and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex, significantly improving regional connectivity and accessibility. The project is also a key component of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), further strengthening Gujarat’s position as a manufacturing and logistics hub.
According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, trains on the corridor will have a design speed of 220 kmph and an operational speed of 200 kmph. Once operational, travel time between Ahmedabad and Dholera is expected to reduce dramatically, with the Sarkhej-Dholera journey taking only around 34 minutes, enabling convenient daily commuting and same-day return travel.
The project is expected to enhance connectivity for approximately 284 villages with a combined population of nearly five lakh people. Besides improving passenger mobility, the corridor will support industrial expansion, attract investments, and accelerate economic activities around Dholera Smart City and its surrounding regions.
The semi-high-speed railway is also expected to deliver environmental benefits by reducing dependence on road transport. Official estimates suggest the project could help save around 0.48 crore litres of oil imports and reduce nearly 2 crore kilograms of carbon emissions, contributing to India’s sustainability and climate goals. The project is targeted for completion by 2030-31.
With the approval of this landmark project, Dholera Smart City is set to emerge as one of India’s best-connected industrial and technology hubs, supported by world-class rail, road, airport, and maritime infrastructure.