Railways Approves Key Doubling Project for Faster Travel to Ayodhya Ram Mandir

In a move set to transform travel to Ayodhya, the Railway Ministry has approved the doubling of tracks on the Mankapur-Tikri and Katra-Ayodhya sections, strengthening connectivity for passengers and devotees visiting the Ram Mandir. The project aims to reduce travel time, improve comfort, and facilitate seamless rail journeys across the pilgrimage-heavy corridor.

The Katra-Tikri section in Gonda district is a vital link in this corridor, while the Mankapur-Ayodhya section will now be fully connected with double tracks at both ends, including Barabanki-Ayodhya-Jaunpur and Basti-Gonda routes. Once completed, the enhanced line will allow more passenger and freight trains, increasing operational efficiency across the region.

Senior railway officials highlighted the economic and social benefits of the project, noting that the improved infrastructure will support tourism, hospitality, and local trade. Premium services like the Vande Bharat Express between Gorakhpur and Prayagraj via Ayodhya will also benefit from reduced congestion and smoother operations.

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The Railways has also undertaken several other strategic projects in Uttar Pradesh, including the Bahraich-Khalilabad new line spanning 240 km, and the Jhansi-Kairar-Manikpur and Kairat-Bhimsen doubling projects, both designated as “Special Railway Projects” to expedite land acquisition and construction. Collectively, these projects aim to strengthen regional connectivity and line capacity.

Significant progress has already been made on several routes. For instance, 115 km of the Jhansi-Kairar-Manikpur doubling project is operational, while land acquisition and construction continue on other stretches like Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyaya-Prayagraj third-line project. Investments exceeding thousands of crores of rupees have been sanctioned over multiple financial years to ensure timely completion.

With a total of 119 railway surveys and projects sanctioned in Uttar Pradesh over the past three years, including 33 new lines and 84 doubling projects, the Ministry expects these developments to stimulate economic growth, enhance regional trade, and improve passenger convenience, reinforcing Ayodhya’s role as a major religious and commercial hub.

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