Railway Minister Inaugurates Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals in Gujarat
Union Minister for Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated, dedicated to the nation, and laid foundation stones for five Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) in Gujarat on September 15, 2026. Four terminals were dedicated to the nation: Shivlakha and Bhimasar in Kachchh, Devaliya in Morbi, and Chandisar in Banaskantha. The foundation stone was laid for the GCT at Linch in Mahesana.
Salt Transportation Innovation
The Minister flagged off a salt-loaded freight train from Shivlakha GCT to Mithapur, introducing new lightweight stainless steel salt containers designed specifically to address transportation challenges. These containers allow loading from the top and unloading from the side, solving problems of moisture absorption and inefficient use of wagon capacity that plagued traditional salt transportation methods.
Infrastructure Development in Kachchh
Railway projects worth approximately ₹5,600 crore are currently underway in the Kachchh region. This includes capacity augmentation and doubling works on critical sections connecting Samakhiali, Bhachau, Gandhidham, Adipur, and Bhuj. The Bhuj-Naliya gauge conversion project has been completed, converting the section from metre gauge to broad gauge. Additionally, the Naliya-Jakhau Port new broad-gauge line has been sanctioned to further improve regional connectivity.
Network Expansion Details
Specific infrastructure upgrades include the Samakhiali-Bhachau section already converted to four-line, Gandhidham-Adipur section made four-line, and the Adipur-Bhuj single-line section currently being doubled. The railway network is being extended from Naliya towards Jakhau Port, Vayor, Luna, Hajipur, and Desalpar to benefit both defense sector requirements and industrial needs in the challenging terrain of Kachchh.
National Gati Shakti Progress and High-Speed Rail Update
Shri Vaishnaw announced that 150 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have now been commissioned across the country, providing significant benefits to industries and improving freight connectivity. Regarding the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project, construction on the Vapi-Surat section is targeted for completion by December 2026, with testing and associated works to follow. The first coach of India's indigenous high-speed train has been prepared and is undergoing various tests as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Benefits and Economic Impact
These new terminals and infrastructure projects will expand rail capacity for freight movement, reduce congestion and bottlenecks at port locations, and strengthen freight connectivity between Gujarat's ports and the northern hinterland. By connecting local economic centers with wider national markets and ports, the GCTs will support growing industrial, trade, and business activity in the region while reducing logistics costs.