New Delhi, September 9 (Daily Kiran) : Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved three multi-tracking railway projects worth ₹10,783 crore on Wednesday. These initiatives are set to be completed by 2029-30.
According to an official statement, the projects will improve connectivity across 14 districts in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. They will add approximately 656 kilometers to the existing Indian railway network.
The projects include the fourth line from Kharagpur to Jharsuguda (Bagdihi), the fourth line from Katni to Pendra Road, and the third line from Bilaspur (Usalapur) to Pendra Road. These routes are essential for transporting coal, cement, iron, and steel.
The capacity enhancements are expected to facilitate an additional freight traffic of 27 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The statement highlighted that railway transportation is an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient mode of travel, contributing to the country’s climate goals and reducing logistics costs. Additionally, these projects are projected to decrease oil imports by 12 crore liters and cut down CO2 emissions by 62 crore kilograms, equivalent to planting 2.48 crore trees.
The proposed capacity increases will also enhance rail connectivity to several major tourist destinations, including the Taratarini Temple, the ancient Jagannath Temple near Jharsuguda, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, and the archaeological site at Malhar, among others.
With improved line capacity, passenger movement will become more efficient, leading to enhanced operational capacity and reliability of Indian Railways. These multi-tracking initiatives are expected to simplify operations and reduce congestion.
The statement further noted that these projects align with PM Modi’s vision of a ‘New India,’ fostering comprehensive development in the region and creating self-reliant communities with increased employment and self-employment opportunities.
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