Kushalgarh Set to Enter India’s Railway Map for the First Time, 380 KM Rail Line Planned

Kushalgarh/Banswara. After decades of waiting, a wave of optimism has spread across South Rajasthan’s tribal-dominated Kushalgarh region. For the first time, this backward and long-neglected area is set to be connected to the country’s main railway network. The Ministry of Railways has recently approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Neemuch–Banswara–Dahod–Nandurbar new railway line project.

The proposed line, stretching 380 kilometers, will directly connect tribal regions of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat to India’s primary railway grid. It will also create the shortest and fastest connectivity on the Delhi–Mumbai corridor, strengthening both passenger and freight movement.

Demand to Include Kushalgarh in the Alignment

Even as the DPR has been cleared, a strong demand has emerged to specifically include Kushalgarh in the route alignment. Banswara-based Chartered Accountant Dr. Pathik Mehta has written to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Prime Minister’s Office, urging them to consider the Banswara–Timeda–Kushalgarh–Dungra–Chakliya–Dahod alignment within the project.

Dr. Mehta pointed out that historically, Kushalgarh was proposed to be linked with the Delhi–Mumbai line, but during British rule, the Thandla–Meghnagar alignment was given preference, leaving Kushalgarh isolated from the rail map for decades.

Pathway to Development and Connectivity

If Kushalgarh is incorporated into the project, it will mark the end of a long phase of neglect and open doors of development for the region. The line will not only improve passenger mobility but also boost trade, tourism, and industrial growth, creating employment opportunities for local youth.

Experts believe that such a project will transform South Rajasthan’s connectivity, linking tribal belts directly with Delhi and Mumbai—India’s political and financial capitals. The move could also enhance industrial prospects and encourage investments in the region.