The Union Cabinet has approved two multitracking railway projects worth ₹6,405 crore
In a major infrastructure push, the Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved two multitracking railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting freight capacity. The projects, covering Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, will expand the Indian Railways network by 318 kilometres, improving mobility and operational efficiency.
With a total investment of ₹6,405 crore, these initiatives align with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, ensuring seamless movement of goods and passengers while supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
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Details of the Approved Projects
The two multitracking projects include:
- Koderma – Barkakana Doubling (133 km)
- This railway section passes through Jharkhand’s coal-producing belt, serving as the shortest and most efficient rail link between Patna and Ranchi.
- The project will increase freight capacity, benefiting industries reliant on coal, steel, cement, and agricultural commodities.
- Ballari – Chikjajur Doubling (185 km)
- This railway line traverses Ballari and Chitradurga districts in Karnataka and Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh.
- The expansion will streamline freight movement, particularly for iron ore, finished steel, fertilizers, and petroleum products.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
The approved railway projects will have far-reaching economic benefits, including:
- Enhanced Freight Capacity: The projects will increase freight traffic by 49 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum), supporting key industries such as coal, steel, cement, and agriculture.
- Improved Connectivity: The railway expansion will benefit 1,408 villages, impacting a population of 28.19 lakh across the three states.
- Employment Generation: The construction phase is expected to create 108 lakh human-days of direct employment, boosting local economies.
- Reduced Logistics Costs: The improved railway infrastructure will lower transportation costs, making freight movement more efficient.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The Indian Railways is known for being an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. These projects will contribute to India’s climate goals by:
- Reducing Oil Imports: The railway expansion is expected to cut oil imports by 52 crore liters, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
- Lowering CO₂ Emissions: The projects will reduce carbon emissions by 264 crore kg, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees.
- Promoting Sustainable Transport: By shifting freight movement from road to rail, the initiative will minimize environmental impact while enhancing efficiency.
Government’s Vision for Railway Modernization
The Cabinet’s approval is part of a larger strategy to modernize Indian Railways, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient transport solutions. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan plays a crucial role in integrating multi-modal transport networks, making India’s logistics sector more competitive.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that these projects will streamline operations, alleviate congestion, and improve service reliability, reinforcing India’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Conclusion – Multitracking Railway Projects
The ₹6,405 crore multitracking projects approved by the Union Cabinet mark a significant milestone in India’s railway expansion efforts. By enhancing connectivity, boosting freight capacity, and supporting economic growth, these initiatives will transform India’s transportation landscape.
As the projects move forward, they will play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s railway network, ensuring efficient, sustainable, and future-ready transport solutions.
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