The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned two railway projects in Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, totaling Rs 24,815 crore. These projects will extend the Indian Railways network by approximately 601 kilometers, benefiting 15 districts in the two states. The initiatives include the Ghaziabad–Sitapur 3rd and 4th Line spanning 403 kilometers and the Rajahmundry (Nidadavolu)–Visakhapatnam (Duvvada) 3rd and 4th Line covering 198 kilometers.
The expansion aims to enhance rail connectivity to various tourist spots like Dudheshwarnath Temple, Garhmukteshwar Ganga Ghat, and Naimisharanya, among others. Additionally, these projects will facilitate the transportation of commodities such as coal, foodgrains, cement, and fertilizers. The Ghaziabad–Sitapur route, a significant part of the Delhi-Guwahati High-Density Network, is a crucial link between the northern and eastern regions of India, passing through major industrial hubs.
The Ghaziabad–Sitapur project, costing Rs 14,926 crore, is pivotal for strengthening connectivity and will bypass congested stations like Hapur, Moradabad, and Bareilly. It is set to introduce six new stations along the bypassing sections to ensure seamless transportation. On the other hand, the Rajahmundry–Visakhapatnam section, part of the Howrah–Chennai High-Density Network, is a key component of the quadrupling initiative for the Howrah–Chennai route, with an outlay of Rs 9,889 crore.
This project, spanning through districts of Andhra Pradesh, will enhance freight movement along the eastern coastline. It is expected to boost tourism by providing better access to destinations like Annavaram and Draksharamam. The approval of these projects underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering rail infrastructure and connectivity across regions.
