The 175.1-kilometer section from Sahnewal (Punjab) to Pilkhani (Uttar Pradesh) has been completed, completing another lap in the journey of the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor towards full operation. It is expected that EDFC will commence operations next month as each part of the EDFC progresses as per their respective designated phase.
Sharing the status of the project, Mr. Pankaj Gupta, Chief General Manager (CGIM) of the Ambala unit, DFCCIL said that the trial phase has been completed and tracks and bridges are ready. To ensure a reliable power supply, two traction power substations have been commissioned in Jagadhri and Khanna, reducing dependence on Northern Railways.
Operational plans are well underway, with the Shambhu to Sahnewal section and the Kalanaur to Pilkhani section set to start operations in November. The Shambhu to Kalanaur section will follow suit in December, pending the ongoing signaling work.
The Ambala unit is overseeing this project, which comes at a cost of Rs 5,500 crore. The construction of 15 foot over bridges is progressing, with six already completed, and the remainder in advanced stages. Additionally, 55 level crossings are part of the project, with six awaiting completion. This initiative marks a significant milestone in enhancing freight transport infrastructure in India.