The Rs 100-crore track conversion project is poised to offer a better connectivity to the tribal region and will also throw the area open for industrial development.

Speaking to The Indian Express, the Union Minister of State for Railway and Chhota Udepur MP, Naran Rathwa, said the line is expected to become operational from March.

“Despite the rate of return (RoR) being half of the standard 14 per cent, the UPA (government) has sanctioned this lines keeping (in mind) the socio-economic ground of the region. Track development must encourage industries to set up their ventures in a 30-km radius of Dabhoi and other parts of the tribal region,” he said, adding that further approval of Chhota Udepur-Dhar-Inodre line would also give connectivity to the tribal region of neighbouring state Madhya Pradesh.

Rathwa said, “A slew of projects are being expedited not only in tribal areas but across the state, including Ankleshwar, Karjan, Miyagam and Dabhoi. Recently, we inaugurated a Rs 250-crore Dabhoi periodical overhauling for electric engines at Dabhoi, which is expected to become operational in one and half year.

“Also, a workshop was inaugurated near Bhavnagar to look after repairs and maintenance.”