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**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Railways has issued notification S.O. 1842(E), dated April 9, 2026, designating the doubling of the Merta Road-Bikaner rail section as a "Special Railway Project." This 172.72 km project in Rajasthan falls under the North Western Railway’s jurisdiction. The notification is effective from its publication date, April 10, 2026, as per the powers granted by the Railways Act, 1989, and the Railways (Amendment) Act, 2008. **Key Points / Main Content** **Project Designation and Scope** * The project involving the doubling of the rail line between Merta Road and Bikaner is officially classified as a "Special Railway Project." * The total length of the railway section affected is 172.72 km. * The project is located entirely within the state of Rajasthan. **Legal and Regulatory Framework** * The notification is issued by the Central Government in exercise of powers conferred by Clause (37 A) of Section 2 of the Railways Act, 1989. * The designation also adheres to the provisions of the Railways (Amendment) Act, 2008 (11 of 2008). * The status of "Special Railway Project" is effective immediately upon the date of publication in the Official Gazette (April 10, 2026). **Administrative Details** * The notification was issued by the North Western Railway (Construction Organization) in Jaipur. * The document is signed by Rajeev Shrivastava, Chief Administrative Officer (Const.). **Impact Analysis** **North Western Railway (Construction Organization)** **Impact** This organization is the primary executing body for the project. The "Special Railway Project" status provides the legal framework necessary for the doubling of the 172.72 km section. **Action Required** The organization must proceed with the construction and administrative requirements for the doubling of the Merta Road-Bikaner section in accordance with the Railways Act. **Government of Rajasthan** **Impact** The project is situated within Rajasthan, affecting land and infrastructure within its state borders. **Action Required** The state authorities may need to provide support or coordination regarding land, local regulations, or logistics as required for a project of this scale and designation. **Ministry of Railways / Central Government** **Impact** The Central Government exercises its statutory power to prioritize and facilitate the development of this specific rail infrastructure. **Action Required** Ensure the project remains compliant with the provisions of the Railways Act, 1989 and the 2008 Amendment.

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