Delhi–Ambala 3rd & 4th Railway Lines: The Union Cabinet has given its nod to a major railway infrastructure project that promises to reshape travel across North India. Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved ₹5,983 crore for constructing the third and fourth railway lines between Delhi and Ambala.
The 194-kilometre corridor is one of the busiest stretches in the region, serving thousands of passengers daily who travel between Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and onward to Jammu. With growing traffic and rising demand, congestion on this route has long been a concern. The new lines aim to change that by expanding capacity and improving operational efficiency.
Railway officials believe the project will significantly reduce delays and enhance punctuality. Commuters on the Delhi–Chandigarh route, in particular, are expected to experience smoother journeys and better seat availability. The project is scheduled for completion within four years and will not require major land acquisition, which could help keep timelines on track.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described the expansion as strategically important. The improved track capacity will facilitate faster troop movement from Delhi toward Jammu via key districts such as Sonepat, Panipat, and Kurukshetra. In critical situations, railways serve as a vital backbone for defense logistics, and this upgrade strengthens that capability.
The engineering scope of the project is substantial. It includes the construction of one major bridge, 28 additional bridges, and the rehabilitation of several aging structures along the route. Railway engineers will modernize infrastructure while ensuring safety and long-term durability.
Environmental benefits are also part of the equation. Officials estimate that the expanded rail capacity could help save around 43 crore kilograms of carbon dioxide annually by enabling smoother train operations and reducing fuel consumption. The construction phase is projected to generate approximately 132 lakh man-days of employment, offering a meaningful boost to local economies.
The Delhi–Ambala project forms part of a broader ₹18,509 crore railway expansion plan covering multiple states. Collectively, the approved multi-tracking projects will add nearly 389 kilometres to the existing network of Indian Railways, helping decongest some of the country’s most heavily used corridors.
The approval also came at a symbolic moment, as it was among the final decisions taken before the government shifted from colonial-era administrative buildings to modern office complexes. Officials described the transition as reflective of India’s modernization drive — both in governance and infrastructure.
For passengers, the impact could be felt in everyday convenience: shorter waiting times, improved reliability, and more comfortable journeys. For the nation, the project represents a strategic investment in connectivity, security, and sustainable growth — reinforcing the railway network as the lifeline of India’s transportation system.