The Cabinet has approved the doubling of the 104-km Tirupati–Pakala–Katpadi railway line, spanning Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. This project received an investment of Rs. 1,332 crore to enhance mobility, improve regional development, support religious tourism, and facilitate 4 MTPA freight capacity—supporting climate goals and India’s logistics efficiency.
Cabinet Greenlights Strategic Doubling Project:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the doubling of the 104-km long Tirupati–Pakala–Katpadi railway line. The project spans two states—Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu—with a total investment of approximately Rs. 1,332 crore.
Enhancing Mobility & Reducing Congestion:
This initiative is set to significantly improve line capacity, streamline railway operations, and reduce congestion in one of the busiest routes of the Indian Railways. The multi-tracking plan is designed to ensure better service reliability and operational efficiency.
A Boost for Regional Development:
- Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, this infrastructure upgrade will contribute to seamless multi-modal connectivity, supporting the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision.
- Covering three districts, the project will enhance accessibility to nearly 400 villages, directly impacting a population of around 14 lakh.
Support for Religious Tourism and Local Heritage:
The section not only strengthens regional transit but also improves rail connectivity to key pilgrimage and heritage destinations such as the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Sri Kalahasti Temple, Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, and Chandragiri Fort—boosting religious tourism and local economies.
Freight Movement and Environmental Gains:
- The project will enable additional freight traffic of 4 MTPA, especially in coal, cement, agricultural produce, and minerals.
- It is estimated to reduce oil imports by 4 crore litres and cut carbon emissions by 20 crore kilograms—equivalent to planting one crore trees.
Conclusion:
This strategic railway doubling project not only accelerates regional growth and spiritual tourism but also strengthens India’s green logistics network. By improving freight movement, lowering carbon emissions, and integrating infrastructure under PM Gati Shakti, the initiative marks a crucial step toward a more connected, efficient, and sustainable railway ecosystem.
Source: PIB | Image Credit (representational): MoR
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