Tamil Nadu Railway Budget Jumps 8.5x Since 2014, Reaches ₹7,611 Crore in 2026

New Delhi, February 9, 2026: Tamil Nadu has witnessed a historic surge in railway funding, with the annual budget allocation rising more than 8.5 times since 2014 to ₹7,611 crore in FY 2026–27, according to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Minister highlighted the figures while outlining the Centre’s continued push to modernise rail infrastructure and improve passenger connectivity across the state.

Land Acquisition Delays Impact Key Projects

Despite the sharp increase in funding, land acquisition remains a major bottleneck for several ongoing and sanctioned railway projects in Tamil Nadu.

Only 24% of the required land has been handed over so far
1,052 hectares acquired out of 4,326 hectares needed
The Centre has already paid ₹1,465 crore to the Tamil Nadu government towards land acquisition

Several strategically important rail lines are facing significant delays due to pending land handovers.

Projects Facing Maximum Delays

Some of the most affected projects include:

Madurai–Tuticorin New Line (144 km):
- Around 91% land acquisition still pending
Tindivanam–Gingee–Tiruvannamalai New Line (71.33 km):
- Nearly 86% land acquisition pending
Rameswaram–Dhanushkodi New Line:
- Foundation stone laid in 2019, but land acquisition yet to begin

The Railway Ministry noted that timely cooperation from the State Government is crucial to avoid cost escalation and project delays.

Expansion Continues Despite Challenges

Even with land-related hurdles, the Centre has continued to sanction new railway lines, track doublings, and third & fourth line projects to support Tamil Nadu’s growing industrial and economic needs. Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have also been prepared for future capacity expansion.

77 Amrit Stations Identified for Redevelopment

Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Tamil Nadu has:

77 stations identified for complete redevelopment
18 stations already completed

These redeveloped stations feature modern passenger amenities, improved accessibility, and upgraded infrastructure.

Massive Progress in Track Laying & Electrification

Since 2014, Indian Railways has achieved significant infrastructure milestones in Tamil Nadu:

1,350 km of new railway tracks constructed
97% electrification achieved
2,386 km of rail lines electrified

This has resulted in faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient train operations across the state.

Vande Bharat & Amrit Bharat Trains Boost Connectivity

Passengers in Tamil Nadu are now benefiting from modern, Made-in-India trains, including:

9 pairs of Vande Bharat Express
9 pairs of Amrit Bharat Express

These services have improved intercity connectivity while offering affordable and faster travel options.

Outlook: Big Funding, Bigger Potential

With record-high budget allocation, near-total electrification, and modern train services, Tamil Nadu’s railway network is poised for long-term growth. However, faster land acquisition remains the key challenge that will determine how quickly the benefits of increased funding translate into completed projects on the ground.