On 17 January 2008, the Cabinet
Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the gauge conversion of the
Ratlam-Mhow-Khandwa-Akola rail line.
The proposed 472.64 km metre gauge
line into broad gauge will entail an investment of Rs.1,421.25 crore.
The route will provide for carrying
foodgrains, oilcakes, cement from Nimach and Chittaurgarh area and various other
products from Pithampur special economic zones near Mhow to southern states. The
broad gauge connectivity will also facilitate the movement of military personnel
and equipment to and from Mhow. The Ratlam-Akola conversion will restore shorter
alternative north-south route link connecting Secunderabad, Chennai with Jaipur,
Ajmer, Ratlam, Indore, Khandwa, Akola and other towns in north West Rajasthan.