Delhi, April 28: Addressing the gathering after Ground Breaking Ceremony of Google Cloud India AI Hub at Visakhapatnam, Union Minister for Railways, MeitY and Information & Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the Gazette Notification for the creation of South Coastal Railway Zone will be issued, with June 1, 2026 being notified as the effective date.
He indicated that this development marks a significant step toward strengthening Railway Administration in Andhra Pradesh.
The Minister further explained that Andhra Pradesh has received a record Railway budget allocation of ₹10,134 crore, a substantial increase compared to the ₹886 crore allocated in earlier years for the combined states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
He noted that railway projects worth approximately Rs.1,06,000 crore are currently underway in Andhra Pradesh, aimed at enhancing connectivity across the state, including links to ports, tourism destinations, and major cities.
Referring to infrastructure achievements, the Minister highlighted that 74 railway stations in Andhra Pradesh are being reconstructed and fully redeveloped describing it as a historic accomplishment in the country.
Providing further details, he stated that, in AP,. 832 Flyovers and Underpasses have been completed, 299 Flyovers and Underpasses are Under Construction, . 1,759 km of Railway Track has been completed and . 3,300 km of Track is Under Construction.
The Minister announced that Andhra Pradesh has achieved 100% Electrification of its Railway Network, positioning it among the leading regions in Railway Modernization.
On passenger services, the Minister mentioned that 16 Vande Bharat trains and 22 Amrit Bharat train services currently serve the state, improving travel efficiency and comfort.
Additionally, he stated that the entire East Coast Railway Corridor is being upgraded to a four-line network, which is expected to double capacity and enable the operation of up to 500 new trains.
The Minister further emphasized that cargo and container train services are being strengthened to connect ports, tourism centers, and major cities along the East Coast Corridor, thereby boosting logistics and economic growth.
Addressing future High-Speed connectivity, he further elaborated the proposed High-Speed connectivity across major Southern Corridors along with the least travel time.
He described this network as a “High-Speed Diamond”, which will significantly enhance mobility, economic integration, and regional growth across Southern India.
The Minister concluded that these initiatives reflect the Union Government’s commitment to transform Andhra Pradesh into a major railway and logistics hub, driving economic growth and regional integration
He emphasized that the Government is committed to ensuring balanced development and welfare, stating that the NDA government at the Centre would deliver complete justice to the Southern States in terms of infrastructure growth and public welfare. He also remarked that opposition parties were politicising developmental issues.
