Nagpur's Ajni Railway Station to Commence Operations from New Platforms by May 2025
In a significant development for Nagpur's railway infrastructure, train movements from the newly constructed platforms at Ajni railway station are expected to begin by May this year. This move is anticipated to substantially alleviate congestion at the bustling Nagpur railway station and create opportunities for the introduction of additional train services. The announcement was made by Vinayak Garg, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Central Railway's Nagpur division, during a press conference held on Monday.
Major Redevelopment at Ajni Station Underway
Ajni station is currently undergoing an extensive redevelopment project with an investment of ₹289 crore. As part of this initiative, the number of platforms has been increased from three to seven, enhancing the station's capacity and operational efficiency. Garg stated, "The complete redevelopment work of Ajni station will be finalized by October. However, we are planning to start train movements from the new platforms by May. This will help in reducing the load from Nagpur station, and even new trains could be started from Ajni station."
Substantial Investments in Nagpur Division's Railway Projects
During the same day, Deepak Kumar Gupta, the DRM of the South East Central Railway's Nagpur division, also conducted a press conference, outlining the detailed works being executed under his division. Although the Nagpur division was not specifically mentioned in the recently announced Union Budget for 2026-27, Garg emphasized that massive investments are already in progress. He revealed that the division is currently managing projects worth approximately ₹30,000 crore. This includes a substantial allocation of ₹24,000 crore dedicated to third and fourth line works, which are aimed at boosting line capacity across critical sections of the railway network.
Infrastructure Development and Passenger Amenities Enhancement
Providing a comprehensive overview of the infrastructure development, Garg highlighted that the Nagpur division is undertaking extensive works to improve passenger amenities, operational efficiency, and freight handling capacity. Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the redevelopment of 15 stations is currently underway at an estimated cost of ₹370 crore. The stations include:
- Ghoradongri
- Betul
- Amla
- Junnardeo
- Multai
- Katol
- Narkher
- Pandhurna
- Godhani
- Sewagram
- Dhamangaon
- Pulgaon
- Hinganghat
- Chandrapur
- Ballarshah
A common feature across all these stations is the construction of 12-metre-wide foot over bridges, designed to enhance passenger safety and convenience. Redevelopment works at Junnardeo, Ghoradongri, and Pulgaon have already been completed, while the remaining stations are targeted for completion by October 2026.
Key Redevelopment Projects at Nagpur and Ajni Stations
Major redevelopment projects are also in progress at Nagpur and Ajni railway stations. The Nagpur station is being reconstructed at an estimated cost of ₹488 crore. This project includes:
- A central elevated concourse
- Three new foot over bridges
- 28 lifts
- 31 escalators
- Modern passenger amenities
The project is expected to be completed by March 2027, significantly upgrading the passenger experience.
Similarly, the Ajni station redevelopment, with a cost of ₹298 crore, encompasses:
- New station buildings
- An elevated concourse
- Three foot over bridges
- 21 lifts
- 17 escalators
Completion is targeted for October 2026, further bolstering the station's infrastructure.
Capacity Augmentation and Freight Operations
On the capacity augmentation front, third and fourth line projects worth ₹4,900 crore are advancing, with completion aimed for March 2028. Additional line works have also been sanctioned on key sections, including Nagpur-Itarsi, Sewagram-Ballarshah, and Wardha-Badnera, to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times.
In freight operations, six Gati Shakti cargo terminals have been commissioned, handling 725 rakes and generating ₹228.05 crore in revenue during the current financial year. Three more terminals are under construction, expanding the freight handling capabilities. Additionally, the Wardha-Nanded new line project is progressing steadily, with 39 kilometers already commissioned. The full completion of this project is targeted for September 2028, promising improved regional connectivity.
These initiatives underscore a concerted effort to modernize Nagpur's railway network, addressing both passenger and freight needs while fostering economic growth in the region.
