Jodhpur/Bilara, 13 April 2026: In a major infrastructure push, the long-pending rail expansion from Jodhpur to Ras via Bilara has moved forward, with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) now submitted to the Ministry of Railways.
The proposed project, estimated at ₹850 crore, will see a new broad gauge railway line laid from Bilara to Ras via Jaitaran.
New Rail Route to Improve Connectivity
The planned route will connect Bilara to Ras through:
- Jaitaran
- Nimbol
- Tookra
Ras is already linked to the railway network via Beawar, making this extension a key connectivity upgrade. Land acquisition for the project has begun, and it is currently awaiting financial approval.
Distance to Reduce by 58 km, Travel Time to Drop
According to North Western Railway officials, the current route from Beawar to Jodhpur via Marwar Junction covers 191 km.
With the new line, the distance will reduce to 133 km, saving:
- 58 km in distance
- Nearly one hour of travel time
This will significantly enhance efficiency for both passengers and freight movement.
Strategic and Industrial Significance
The rail project is considered crucial from both industrial and strategic perspectives. The region has a strong presence of:
- Limestone
- Granite
- China clay
- Cement industries
According to DRM Anurag Tripathi, improved rail connectivity will directly benefit these industries and boost regional as well as national economic growth.
115-Year-Old Rail Legacy Revived
The rail link has a long history dating back to 1905, when a narrow gauge line was approved to connect Pipar Road to Bilara. It was later converted into meter gauge, dismantled in 1997, and then upgraded to broad gauge in 2008.
Now, after 115 years, the extension of this rail line marks a significant milestone in Rajasthan’s railway development.
Boost to Regional Development
The expansion is expected to:
- Improve regional connectivity
- Accelerate industrial growth
- Strengthen strategic mobility
The project had been a long-standing demand of public representatives and is now gaining momentum.
