The Bhopal–Itarsi line was opened by the Begum of Bhopal in 1884.[3] Itarsi was linked with Nagpur between 1923 and 1924.[4] The Bhopal–itarsi-Nagpur line became part of the Delhi–Chennai line in 1929.[5]
Electrification
The Bhopal–Itarsi sector was electrified in 1988–89 and the Nagpur–Itarsi sector in 1990–91.[6]
Speed limits
The Delhi–Chennai Central line (Grand Trunk route) is classified as a "Group A" line which can take speeds up to 160 km/h.[7]
Itarsi diesel shed holds 145+ locos. It has WDM-2, WDM-3A, WDM-3D, WDS-6 and WDP-4 diesel locos. This shed serves routes all across central India. Itarsi electric loco shed came up in the 1980s. It holds WAM-4, WAP-4 and WAG-5 electric locos. Its WAG-5 locos perform banking duties on the Budni–Barkhera Ghat section. There are also ghat sections between Teegaon–Chinchoda and Dharakhoh–Maramjhiri In Bhopal–Nagpur section where bankers are attached to trains. Broad Gauge Coach Workshop at Bhopal handles rebuilding and overhaul of old passenger coaches. There is a coach maintenance workshop at Nagpur.[9]
