The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given a green light to three ambitious multitracking projects under the Ministry of Railways. With an estimated cost of ₹7,927 crore, these projects are set to significantly bolster Indian Railways’ operational efficiency and connectivity across three states—Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh—over the next four years.
Project Details:
Jalgaon–Manmad 4th Line:
- Length: 160 km
- State: Maharashtra
Bhusawal–Khandwa 3rd & 4th Lines:
- Length: 131 km
- States: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh
Prayagraj (Iradatganj)–Manikpur 3rd Line:
- Length: 84 km
- State: Uttar Pradesh
Key Highlights of the Projects:
- Total addition to the railway network: 639 km
- Coverage: 7 districts in three states
- Focused development in two aspirational districts: Khandwa and Chitrakoot
- Connectivity to approximately 1,319 villages and a population of 38 lakh
Economic and Social Impact:
These projects align with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which emphasizes integrated planning for seamless connectivity. The initiatives will:
- Ease congestion on vital routes between Mumbai and Prayagraj.
- Enhance access to religious destinations like Trimbakeshwar, Omkareshwar, Kashi Vishwanath, and Chitrakoot, fostering religious tourism.
- Promote economic self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) through job creation and infrastructure development.
- Support tourism to heritage sites such as Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Khajuraho, and Rewa Fort.
Environmental and Logistical Benefits:
- Additional freight traffic capacity: 51 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum).
- Reduction in carbon emissions: 271 crore kg, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees.
- Boost in the transportation of commodities like agricultural produce, fertilizers, coal, steel, and cement, lowering overall logistics costs.
Conclusion:
The Rs. 7,927 crore investment in multitracking projects reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing Indian Railways and fostering regional development. By enhancing connectivity, reducing congestion, and promoting sustainability, these initiatives are poised to transform the transportation landscape while supporting the broader goals of economic growth and environmental preservation.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational):
