NER's Ambitious Rs 200 Crore Proposal to Upgrade Mailani-Nanpara Heritage Railway Line
The Northeastern Railway's (NER) Lucknow division has unveiled a detailed and ambitious proposal to upgrade the Mailani-Nanpara meter gauge section, which stands as one of India's few surviving heritage railway lines. Rather than converting it into a high-capacity modern corridor, the plan consciously treats this historic route as a living heritage asset, focusing on preservation and enhancement.
Preserving Historic Character with Strategic Investments
Stretching across nearly 110 kilometers of forested and largely rural landscape, the Mailani-Nanpara section has long been celebrated for its historic character and unique meter gauge operations. The NER has proposed a complete track renewal project worth Rs 200 crore to ensure the line's structural integrity. Additionally, bridge strengthening will receive an investment of Rs 20 crore to bolster safety and durability.
A total of 13 railway stations along the route will undergo comprehensive retrofitting and reroofing, with a planned investment of Rs 15 crore. This initiative aims to extend the lifespan of these stations while meticulously retaining their heritage architecture and charm.
Enhancing Safety and Modernizing Operations
Level crossings—comprising 30 manned and 27 unmanned crossings—will be significantly improved through better road widths, enhanced fencing, and upgraded boom barriers. These measures are designed to increase safety for both rail and road users while maintaining the line's traditional aesthetic.
Signaling and communication systems, which are currently mechanical and heavily reliant on manpower, will be strengthened through upgraded mechanical gears, improved block working arrangements, quad cabling, and outsourced maintenance. This approach addresses staff shortages while preserving the traditional signaling character and improving overall reliability.
Transforming into a Premium Heritage Tourism Experience
To elevate the route into a premium heritage tourism destination, the NER plans to introduce 10 vistadome coaches worth Rs 31 crore and six modern meter gauge trainsets valued at Rs 103 crore. These additions will offer passengers panoramic views and enhanced comfort, making the journey a memorable experience.
Supporting assets such as inspection carriages, accident relief trains, maintenance vehicles, and diesel locomotives are also part of the comprehensive plan, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
Commitment to Low-Impact Footprint and Heritage Legacy
DRM Gaurav Agarwal emphasized that the new proposal builds on the line's legacy by focusing on strengthening existing assets rather than introducing new infrastructure. Night operations will continue to remain suspended, goods traffic will be restricted to departmental wagons, and no new residential colonies or large-scale facilities are planned. This strategy preserves the line's low-impact footprint and authentic heritage feel.
Additional Initiatives by NER Lucknow Division
In related developments, the Lucknow division of NER will complete fencing along both sides of the rail track between Lucknow and Gorakhpur. This measure aims to address the approximately 250 cases of cattle runover reported annually in the division, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Furthermore, the redevelopment of 14 stations, including Aishbagh, Badshahnagar, Lucknow City, and Daliganj, is scheduled for completion before December, contributing to overall infrastructure improvements.
Record Revenue and Performance Achievements
Northern Railway's Lucknow division has achieved remarkable financial and operational milestones, recording a revenue of Rs 2,626.54 crore, surpassing its annual target. Digital income from unreserved ticketing reached Rs 72.37 crore—nearly double the previous year's figure.
Train punctuality also saw significant improvement in 2025-26, rising to 72.17%, with a record 91.40% punctuality achieved on March 5, 2026, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency and service quality.
