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Cabinet Approves ₹18,509 Crore Railway Projects to Boost Connectivity Across 12 Districts

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved three major railway multi-tracking projects with a total investment of ₹18,509 crore. These projects will expand the rail network by approximately 389 kilometers across 12 districts in Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. They are designed to enhance multimodal logistics, reduce congestion, and improve connectivity for nearly 3,902 villages. The initiative is expected to significantly boost freight capacity and improve access to several key tourist and pilgrimage destinations.

Key Points: ₹18,509 Crore Railway Projects Approved for 12 Districts

  • Boosts network by 389 km
  • Covers 12 districts across 4 states
  • Enhances connectivity to 3,902 villages
  • Aims for 96 MTPA extra freight traffic
2 min read

Cabinet greenlights 3 Railways projects covering 12 districts for Rs 18,509 crore

Centre approves three multi-tracking railway projects spanning 389 km to enhance freight and passenger connectivity across Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

"The projects are in line with PM Modi's Vision of a New India which will make people of the region 'Atmanirbhar' - CCEA Statement"

New Delhi, Feb 14

In a significant development, the Centre has approved three multi-tracking projects, covering 12 districts across Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka, with a total cost of Rs 18,509 crore.

This will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 389 kms. The projects are planned on the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan with focus on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations.

These projects will also provide seamless connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services. The proposed multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to nearly 3,902 villages, with a combined population of about 97 lakh.

According to the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, these projects include Kasara-Manmad 3rd and 4th line; Delhi-Ambala 3rd and 4th line; and Ballari - Hosapete 3rd and 4th line.

The increased line capacity will significantly enhance mobility, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways.

These multi-tracking proposals are poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion.

"The projects are in line with PM Modi's Vision of a New India which will make people of the region 'Atmanirbhar' by way of comprehensive development in the area which will enhance their employment/ self-employment opportunities," said the CCEA in a statement.

The projects are planned on PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan with focus on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. These projects will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services.

The proposed capacity enhancement will improve rail connectivity to several prominent tourist destinations across the country, including Bhavli Dam, Shri Ghatandevi, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra/Srinagar, and major attractions such as Hampi (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Ballari Fort, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, the Tungabhadra Dam, Kenchanagudda, and the Vijaya Vittala Temple, etc.

According to the government, the proposed projects are essential routes for transportation of commodities such as coal, steel, iron ore, cement, limestone/bauxite, container, foodgrains, sugar, fertilisers and POL etc.

Moreover, the capacity augmentation works will result in additional freight traffic of magnitude 96 MTPA (million tonnes per annum).

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Connecting nearly 4000 villages is a game-changer for rural India. This will open up markets for farmers and create so many local employment opportunities. The focus on tourist spots like Hampi is also brilliant for promoting domestic tourism. 👍
R
Rohit P
Rs 18,509 crore is a massive amount. While infrastructure is crucial, I hope there is strict oversight to prevent cost overruns and delays. We've seen projects get stuck before. The benefits are clear, but delivery is key.
M
Michael C
As someone who travels frequently on the Kasara-Manmad route for work, the announcement of 3rd and 4th lines is a relief! The current capacity is stretched thin, especially during festivals. This should make journeys smoother and safer.
S
Shreya B
Enhancing freight capacity by 96 MTPA is the real story here. Efficient movement of coal, steel, and foodgrains will reduce logistics costs for businesses, control inflation, and make Indian products more competitive. A solid step for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
K
Karthik V
Good move, but I hope the planning under Gati Shakti also considers last-mile connectivity. A new railway line is useless if there are no proper roads or bus services to the station. Integrated planning must be on the ground, not just on paper.
N
Nisha Z

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