Railway Minister Inaugurates Five Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals in Gujarat
Union Minister for Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated, dedicated, and laid foundation stones for five Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) in Gujarat on September 15, 2026, significantly enhancing the state's freight handling capacity and improving connectivity between regional economic centers, ports, and national markets. The minister inaugurated Shivlakha GCT in Kachchh, dedicated three terminals to the nation (Bhimasar in Kachchh, Devaliya in Morbi, and Chandisar in Banaskantha), and laid the foundation stone for Linch GCT in Mahesana.
Salt Transportation Innovation and Infrastructure Development
Shri Vaishnaw flagged off a salt-loaded freight train from Shivlakha GCT to Mithapur, highlighting the introduction of new lightweight stainless steel salt containers designed to address traditional transportation challenges. These containers allow top loading and side unloading, prevent moisture absorption during transit, and optimize wagon capacity utilization that was previously compromised by conventional wagon weight and moisture issues.
Major Railway Infrastructure Investments in Kachchh
The minister detailed substantial railway infrastructure development in the Kachchh region, with projects worth approximately ₹5,600 crore currently underway. 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, strengthening regional rail connectivity, while the Naliya-Jakhau Port new broad-gauge line has been sanctioned for further development.
Network Expansion and Strategic Benefits
Specific infrastructure enhancements include the Samakhiali-Bhachau section already converted to four-line, Gandhidham-Adipur section made four-line, and the Adipur-Bhuj single-line section being doubled. The expanded railway network is expected to provide significant benefits to the Kachchh region, particularly for defense sector requirements and industrial needs, while also benefiting residents in challenging terrain areas.
National Infrastructure Progress Updates
Shri Vaishnaw announced that 150 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have now been commissioned across the country, providing industrial benefits and improved 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 for high-speed rail technology indigenization.
Event Participation
The event was attended by Shri Trikambhai Chhanga (Minister of State, Government of Gujarat), Shri Vinodbhai Chavda (MP), Shri Haribhai Patel (MP), Shri Rajubhai Shukla (MP), and Shri Chandubhai Shihora (MP), along with other officials and dignitaries.