New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved three major railway projects with a total estimated cost of Rs 6,456 crore. These projects are aimed at enhancing logistical efficiency, expanding railway capacity, and fostering economic growth by improving transportation networks across India.
The approved projects are part of the government’s efforts to connect previously unconnected areas, improve mobility, and streamline supply chains. By expanding the existing railway infrastructure, the projects will lead to better service reliability and reduced congestion on some of the busiest railway sections in the country.
The new line proposals and multi-tracking initiatives align with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat), aiming to provide economic development and create new employment and self-employment opportunities in the regions covered by the projects.
These initiatives stem from the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, designed for integrated multi-modal connectivity. The projects will ensure seamless movement of people, goods, and services, further boosting the economy.
Key Highlights of the Projects:
- States and Districts Covered: The projects will span 7 districts across 4 states: Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh, adding approximately 300 km to the Indian Railways network.
- New Stations and Connectivity: The construction of 14 new railway stations will enhance connectivity to over 1,300 villages, directly benefiting around 11 lakh people. Two aspirational districts—Nuapada (Odisha) and East Singhbhum (Jharkhand)—will be connected through these projects.
- Economic Impact: The upgraded infrastructure is expected to handle an additional freight traffic of 45 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). This will facilitate the transportation of essential commodities such as agricultural products, fertilizers, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and limestone.
- Environmental Benefits: The projects will contribute to India’s climate goals by reducing logistics costs and cutting oil imports by 10 crore liters. This is estimated to lower CO2 emissions by 240 crore kg, which is equivalent to planting 9.7 crore trees.