In a significant push to enhance the nation's rail infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved three major multitracking projects of the Ministry of Railways. The ambitious plan, estimated to cost Rs 9,072 crore, will expand the existing Indian Railways network by approximately 307 kilometers and is expected to be a game-changer for connectivity in four states.
The approved projects include the Gondia-Jabalpur doubling, the Punarakh-Kiul third and fourth line, and the Gamharia-Chandil third and fourth line. These critical infrastructure upgrades will span eight districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
According to an official government statement, the multitracking works will significantly enhance rail connectivity to nearly 5,407 villages, directly benefiting a population of around 98 lakh people. The additional line capacity is expected to dramatically improve mobility, operational efficiency, and service reliability, while easing chronic congestion on these busy routes.
"These multi-tracking proposals are poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion," the government stated. "The projects are in line with the Prime Minister Narendra Modiji'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."
Beyond passenger convenience, the capacity enhancement will unlock significant economic potential. The projects will improve rail connectivity to several prominent tourist destinations, including the Kachnar Shiv Temple (Jabalpur), Kanha National Park (Balaghat), Pench National Park, Dhuandhar Waterfall, Chandil Dam, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, and others, making them more accessible to travelers.
The routes are also vital arteries for the transportation of essential commodities such as coal, steel, iron ore, cement, foodgrains, and petroleum products. The government projects that the capacity augmentation works will result in an additional freight traffic volume of 52 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
The projects are being planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on integrated planning to strengthen multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency. This strategic approach is aimed at ensuring the seamless movement of both passengers and goods across key economic corridors.
In line with India's climate commitments, the government highlighted the environmental benefits of the rail expansion. "The Railways, being an environment-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation, will help both in achieving climate goals and minimizing the logistics cost of the country," the statement added. It is estimated that the projects will help reduce oil import by 6 crore litres and lower CO2 emissions by 30 crore kg, an effect equivalent to the plantation of one crore trees.
With these approvals, the government aims to create a more robust, efficient, and future-ready railway network that drives economic growth and enhances the quality of life for citizens across the region.
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