The Sarkhej–Dholera semi-high-speed rail project has moved into its tendering stage, marking another major step in the development of Dholera’s regional connectivity network.
Western Railway has invited bids for an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract estimated at ₹18,901.68 crore for a 134-kilometre double-line corridor connecting Sarkhej with Dholera.
The project will also include spur lines to Dholera Airport Terminal and the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex.
From Approval to Tender
The Union Cabinet approved the project in May 2026 at an estimated total cost of approximately ₹20,667 crore, with completion targeted for 2030–31.
The corridor is intended to provide faster connectivity between Ahmedabad, Dholera SIR, Dholera Airport and Lothal.
The EPC tender represents the next major step toward construction. The package covers civil and railway-system works including viaducts, bridges, stations, tracks, electrical systems, signalling, telecommunications, testing and commissioning.
Recent tender amendments have extended the bid-submission deadline into January 2027.
Strengthening Dholera’s Connectivity
The proposed railway will add a high-capacity passenger connection between Ahmedabad and Dholera.
Its planned airport spur is particularly significant as it would connect the rail corridor directly with Dholera Airport, complementing the Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway, which is already operational.
The Lothal spur would also connect the corridor with the Lothal National Maritime Heritage Complex, giving the project a wider regional role.
For Dholera SIR, the railway could become an important component of the transport network supporting industrial and urban development.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus is completion of the EPC tender process, followed by contractor selection and construction.
Key milestones to watch include:
- EPC contractor appointment
- Contract award
- Start of construction
- Development of stations, bridges and viaducts
- Airport and Lothal spur development
- Progress toward the 2030–31 completion target
RWI Perspective
The move from Cabinet approval to a major ₹18,901.68 crore EPC tender marks a significant step in the Sarkhej–Dholera rail project’s progress.
For Dholera Smart City Gujarat, the eventual railway connection could strengthen links with Ahmedabad while connecting Dholera Airport and Lothal to the wider regional network.
As road, rail and airport infrastructure develop alongside industrial projects, the corridor will remain an important milestone to track in the continuing development of Dholera SIR.
RWI Developers will continue tracking major Dholera infrastructure and connectivity developments through its News & Insights platform.
