The Centre has planned to resume execution of Thoothukudi-Madurai via Aruppukottai new railway line project after having put it on hold for the last four years, said Madurai MP Su. Venkatesan.Talking to reporters here on Thursday, Mr. Venkatesan said that the new railway line via Aruppukottai was very crucial for movement of cargo from Thoothukudi port to northern and western parts of the State.However, the Centre had put in on freeze with the claim of lack of economic feasibility. After the issue was repeatedly raised in Parliament and with Railway Minister considering its importance for the development of Tamil Nadu, Southern Railway has come forward for reopening the project, he added.Land acquisition was stopped after the ₹2,600-crore project was put on hold. But, now the Centre has asked Tamil Nadu to resume land acquisition process.Only 18-km of new broad gauge line, out of 143-km, has been laid between Milavittan and Melmaruvathur and commissioned in 2022. Published - June 04, 2026 07:46 pm IST