The Cabinet has approved four multitracking projects worth Rs. 11,169 crore across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha and Jharkhand. The project covers 13 districts and 574 km of rail network. It will improve freight movement, generate employment, minimise CO₂ emissions and reinforce multi-modal connectivity under the PM Gati Shakti plan.
Introduction:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has sanctioned four significant railway multitracking projects to accelerate the capacity and efficiency of India’s rail network. These Rs. 11,169 crore projects will extend the network by 574 km and are expected to be completed by 2028-29.
Projects Overview:
The Ministry of Railways will execute the following four multitracking projects–
These projects span 13 districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand, boosting regional connectivity and logistical efficiency.
Economic and Employment Impact:
The projects will generate significant direct and indirect employment and support the government’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” by fostering regional economic growth.
Boost to Freight and Logistics:
The multitracking initiatives will alleviate congestion, improve operational efficiency, and increase freight movement capacity by 95.91 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). Key commodities to benefit include–
By enhancing freight efficiency, these projects are aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, ensuring seamless multi-modal connectivity for people, goods, and services.
Environmental Benefits:
This aligns with India’s climate goals, contributing to sustainable development.
Strategic Importance:
The approved multitracking corridors are critical for India’s industrial and economic hubs, supporting faster passenger and freight operations. Increased line capacity will improve service reliability, strengthen the national supply chain, and enhance India’s position in cost-effective logistics.
Conclusion:
The Cabinet’s approval of these multitracking projects marks a major step in strengthening India’s railway infrastructure, driving economic growth, and promoting sustainability. By 2028-29, these projects will enhance connectivity, boost freight capacity, generate large-scale employment, and support India’s logistics and climate goals under PM Gati Shakti.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit(representational): DFCCIL
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