_*Indian Railways Cancels Mathura-Vrindavan Conversion Project*_ *Why in News:* The Indian Railway Ministry has permanently closed the Mathura-Vrindavan railway line conversion project due to being deemed “uneconomical” and facing strong local opposition. *Key Points:* * The project aimed to convert the metre gauge to broad gauge at a cost of Rs 402 crore. * Initiated in 2017-18, the project faced significant local opposition regarding track design and accessibility. * The metre gauge line was over 100 years old and operated until early 2023. * Rs 191 crore was already invested in the project before its cancellation. * Local residents preferred a road on railway land instead of the new railway line. * The cancellation raises concerns over financial losses and balancing local needs with infrastructure planning.