The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by PM Modi, has approved two multitracking projects—Ratlam-Nagda and Wardha-Balharshah—covering 176 km in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. With an investment of Rs. 3,399 crore, the projects will enhance freight capacity, reduce emissions, minimise logistics costs, and support the government’s climate and growth goals.
Introduction:
Representing a major stride to strengthen India’s rail infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved two major multitracking railway projects in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. This ambitious initiative is part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan and reflects the government’s steadfast commitment to building seamless, integrated transport systems that cater to both freight and passenger needs.
With an estimated investment of Rs. 3,399 crore, these projects are expected to be completed by 2029-30 and will significantly increase rail capacity and connectivity in central India.
Project Details:
- Ratlam–Nagda Third and Fourth Line Project – 41 km
- Wardha–Balharshah Fourth Line Project – 135 km
Combined, these projects will expand Indian Railways’ network by approximately 176 kilometers, covering four districts across both states. The estimated cost of Ratlam–Nagda Third and Fourth Line Project is Rs. 1,018 crore and Wardha–Balharshah Fourth Line Project is 2,381 crore.
Scope and Strategic Importance:
The multitracking projects span four key districts in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The initiative will add approximately 176 kilometers to the Indian Railways network and will impact the lives of nearly 19.74 lakh residents across 784 villages.
These routes are strategically critical for the movement of several commodities, such as-
- Coal
- Cement, Clinker & Gypsum
- Fly Ash
- Petroleum Products
- Agricultural Goods
- Containers and Industrial Freight
By upgrading these high-demand corridors, Indian Railways is preparing for an additional freight capacity of 18.40 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum) — a move that is expected to streamline logistics and reduce bottlenecks on key transport routes.
Economic and Environmental Impact:
The multitracking works are more than just infrastructural upgrades — they represent a push toward a more sustainable and self-reliant India.
Key benefits include:
- Reduction in Oil Import: Saving of approx. 20 crore litres of fuel
- Emission Reduction: Estimated cut in 99 crore kg of CO₂, equivalent to planting 4 crore trees
- Employment Generation: 74 lakh human-days of direct employment during the construction phase
- Cost Efficiency: Lowered logistics and freight costs due to streamlined operations
These projects exemplify how environmentally friendly rail transport can contribute significantly toward national sustainability goals while promoting economic development.
Boost to Rural and Regional Development:
The ripple effect of these projects will be felt far beyond rail tracks. By improving rail access to 784 villages, the projects are poised to-
- Enhance mobility for rural populations
- Improve access to markets and urban centres
- Foster economic activities including MSMEs and agriculture
- Generate new self-employment opportunities in logistics, services, and support sectors
- Such infrastructure development serves as a foundation for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, fostering self-reliance at the grassroots level through connectivity and opportunity.
Logistics, Operational Efficiency & Network Decongestion:
With increasing demand for rail services, Indian Railways is facing the challenge of congestion and slower freight movement on some key routes. These multitracking projects will help to-
- Reduce congestion on existing single or double lines
- Improve train punctuality and turnaround times
- Enhance operational efficiency and capacity utilisation
- Facilitate the integration of multi-modal logistics parks being developed under the Gati Shakti framework
By increasing line capacity and minimizing delays, the projects will ensure smoother and more reliable services for both passengers and freight customers.
Aligning with the PM-Gati Shakti Master Plan:
Both approved projects are integral components of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which emphasizes integrated, multi-modal connectivity. The focus is on converging road, rail, port, and air infrastructure into a single comprehensive framework, ensuring optimized use of assets and resources.
This approach ensures–
- Faster project clearances through unified planning
- Optimized route planning for efficient cargo and passenger flow
- Alignment of investments with regional growth priorities
These projects exemplify the seamless coordination between ministries and departments under the Gati Shakti platform.
Reinforcing the Vision of ‘New India’:
These developments are not just infrastructure projects; they are key milestones in the vision of a “New India” that is better connected, economically stronger, and environmentally sustainable. By targeting regions with high potential for industrial and agricultural output, the government is leveraging railways as a catalyst for regional transformation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s infrastructure is rooted in inclusivity, sustainability, and future-readiness, and these multitracking projects reaffirm that direction.
Conclusion:
The Rs. 3,399 crore multitracking projects in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh mark a significant leap toward integrated, efficient, and eco-friendly rail infrastructure. With increased capacity, reduced emissions, and enhanced regional development, these initiatives underscore the government’s focus on sustainable mobility and inclusive growth under the PM-Gati Shakti framework.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): SCR
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