Maharashtra plans new rail freight corridor to boost trade and industry

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has proposed a new dedicated rail freight corridor. The project aims to connect major ports with inland dry ports and industrial clusters. It is expected to boost the state’s role as a key hub for trade and manufacturing. The corridor will link Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) and the under-construction Vadhvan Port to inland dry ports and industrial areas. JNPT already handles nearly 60% of India’s container traffic, while Vadhvan Port is set to become one of the world’s largest ports once completed. Land for the railway has been reserved along the 701-kilometre Samruddhi Expressway.

The network will extend to key dry ports such as Jalna and Wardha, reaching as far as Gadchiroli. The project is designed to cut logistics costs to around seven to eight per cent, improving the competitiveness of Maharashtra’s industries globally. Maharashtra currently contributes 14% to India’s GDP and accounts for almost one-fifth of the country’s exports.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting investors. He promised to maintain a business-friendly environment, reinforcing Maharashtra’s position as a leader in electronics manufacturing and data centres. The rail freight corridor will strengthen connections between ports, dry ports, and industrial zones. It is expected to lower transport costs and enhance Maharashtra’s economic growth. The state remains focused on creating favourable conditions for businesses and investors.