The Union Cabinet has approved four huge railway multitracking projects worth Rs. 18,658 crore across Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. These project covers 1,247 km and aims to reduce congestion, better freight capacity, and promote seamless connectivity. These projects, under the Ministry of Railways, are scheduled for completion by 2030-31 and help India in achieving its climate and logistics efficiency goals.
Cabinet Approval and Cost:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has greenlit four multitracking railway projects with a cumulative investment of Rs. 18,658 crore. The projects span across 15 districts in three Indian states — Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh — and will expand the Indian Railways network by approximately 1,247 km while generating 379 lakh human-days of employment.
Project Details:
- Sambalpur – Jarapda (3rd & 4th Line)
- Jharsuguda – Sason (3rd & 4th Line)
- Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Parmalkasa (5th & 6th Line)
- Gondia – Balharshah Doubling
Impact on Infrastructure and Connectivity:
- The upgraded infrastructure will alleviate congestion on key routes, improve mobility and operational efficiency, and contribute to better service reliability.
- These developments fall under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and are designed for seamless multimodal connectivity.
Employment and Socioeconomic Benefits:
The construction phase is projected to generate around 379 lakh human-days of direct employment. Additionally, 19 new stations will be built, connecting around 3,350 villages and impacting 47.25 lakh people, including residents of two Aspirational Districts — Gadchiroli and Rajnandgaon.
Economic and Environmental Gains:
- The projects will unlock new industrial potential, especially in areas like Baloda Bazar, with possible development of cement and manufacturing units.
- From a sustainability perspective, they are expected to save 95 crore litres of oil annually, cut 477 crore kg of CO₂ emissions, and support India’s green goals.
Conclusion:
These multitracking projects symbolize a major push under PM Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India. Beyond boosting rail infrastructure and freight capacity, they promote inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development. With strategic connectivity and industrial potential, they are poised to transform regional economies and strengthen India’s logistics backbone.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Southern Railway
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