The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned railway projects worth Rs 23,437 crore in six states, expanding the Indian Railways network by 901 km. These projects encompass the Nagda-Mathura 3rd and 4th Line; Guntakal–Wadi 3rd and 4th Line; and Burhwal–Sitapur 3rd and 4th Line, with a completion target set for 2030-31. The proposed multi-tracking initiative aims to boost connectivity to approximately 4,161 villages with a collective population of about 83 lakh.
The capacity enhancement initiative is expected to enhance rail connectivity to various popular tourist spots nationwide, including Mahakaleshwar, Ranthambore National Park, Kuno National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Mathura, Vrindavan, Mantralayam (Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt), Sri Nettikanti Anjaneya Swamy Vari Temple (Kasapuram), Shyamnath Temple, and Naimisharanya (Neemsar). These routes are crucial for transporting commodities like coal, foodgrains, cement, POL, iron and steel, iron ore, containers, and fertilisers. The capacity augmentation efforts are projected to result in an additional freight traffic volume of 60 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum).
The increased line capacity is poised to significantly enhance mobility, leading to improved operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. These multi-tracking proposals are anticipated to streamline operations and alleviate congestion. The projects align with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations.
These initiatives are aimed at aiding in achieving climate objectives, reducing the country’s logistics costs, curbing oil imports (37 crore litres), and lowering CO2 emissions (185 crore kg), equivalent to planting seven crore trees. The projects are designed to provide seamless connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services.
