NEW DELHI, November 2025 — The Indian government has given the green light to two significant rapid rail corridors connecting Delhi with Haryana, a move poised to substantially enhance regional connectivity within the National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas. This development is part of a broader strategy to modernize and expand India's rail infrastructure.

The approved projects include the 93-km Sarai Kale Khan-Bawal corridor, estimated at Rs 32,000 crore, and the 136-km Sarai Kale Khan-Karnal corridor, requiring an investment of Rs 33,000 crore. The combined project value stands at Rs 65,000 crore. The Public Investment Board (PIB) has recommended these projects, which now await final approval from the Union Cabinet.

These new corridors are expected to significantly improve travel times and accessibility between Delhi and key cities in Haryana, fostering economic growth and urban development. The implementation of value capture financing, where project funding is linked to increased land values resulting from infrastructure development, is a key aspect of this initiative, potentially serving as a model for future projects.

The project emphasizes a collaborative approach between Delhi and Haryana, with advice to adopt transit-oriented development (TOD) and establish Urban Metropolitan Transport Authorities (UMTAs) to ensure integrated urban growth along the transport corridors. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is actively revising its TOD policy to support such integrated development.

This expansion represents a major step forward in India's ambitious rail infrastructure plans, aiming to create a more integrated and efficient transportation network across the northern region, thereby stimulating economic activity and improving quality of life for residents.

Source: NDTV