A consortium led by RailTel Corporation has been issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) worth ₹1,136 crore for the modernisation of the Inter-Garrison Rail (IGR) network in Maharashtra, officials said on Thursday.
The RailTel-led consortium will undertake comprehensive upgrades and modernisation works across the IGR network, which serves key defence and logistics routes in the state. The project is expected to improve connectivity, enhance operational reliability, and integrate advanced communication and signalling systems across the rail infrastructure being modernised.
The modernisation initiative forms part of broader efforts by Indian Railways and associated agencies to strengthen strategic rail corridors that support mobility for both civilian and defence logistics requirements. The upgrades will include enhanced digital communication frameworks, improved track and signalling technology, and advanced infrastructure components to support higher throughput and reliability.
RailTel, a central public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Railways specialising in digital connectivity and communication solutions, will leverage its expertise in network deployment, fibre-optic systems and telecommunications to deliver integrated rail infrastructure upgrades under the scope of the project. The consortium is expected to partner with technology, engineering and construction stakeholders to execute various components of the modernisation works.
Officials noted that the LoI issuance marks a key step towards contract finalisation, following technical evaluations and compliance checks. Detailed project execution plans, timelines and financial structuring are expected to be worked out as part of the next phase of implementation once the formal contract is awarded.
The modernisation project is anticipated to boost rail logistics efficiency across Maharashtra while enabling enhanced coordination for defence and freight movement along the IGR network. Improved infrastructure is expected to support future traffic growth, strengthen reliability and reduce transit times for critical rail movements.
Rail and defence logistics observers said the project aligns with national priorities to improve strategic connectivity and integrate advanced technology into rail operations. By modernising key rail segments, the initiative aims to enhance the capacity and performance of infrastructure serving both military and civilian transport needs.
The consortium’s execution of the IGR modernisation project is expected to generate employment opportunities, support regional rail development and contribute to overall enhancements in transport efficiency across the state’s rail network.
