The Ministry of Railways announced the approval of railway infrastructure projects totaling Rs 1,200 crore to enhance safety and connectivity on the Jammu-Katra and Howrah-Delhi corridors. Specifically, critical works such as slope stabilisation, tunnel rehabilitation, and bridge protection will be undertaken on the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra section of Northern Railway at a cost of Rs 238 crore. These initiatives aim to address safety concerns and operational challenges along the routes, including slope stabilisation, tunnel seepage issues, and bridge protection works in vulnerable areas.
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that these projects signify the government’s dedication to ensuring secure and efficient rail connectivity in challenging terrains across the country. The decision to sanction protection and rehabilitation works follows a comprehensive evaluation of cuttings, bridges, and tunnels to bolster the long-term safety and reliability of the strategically significant section. The Jammu-Katra route has encountered various engineering and operational hurdles due to rugged terrain, adverse geological conditions, and severe weather conditions.
In a separate development, the government greenlit the Kiul-Jhajha 3rd Line Project, covering 54 km with an estimated cost of Rs 962 crore. This project, part of the high-density Howrah-Delhi corridor, aims to boost capacity, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen passenger and freight movement in Eastern and Northern India. The existing double-line section between Kiul and Jhajha is currently operating beyond optimal capacity, with anticipated growth in traffic demand. The proposed third-line project is expected to significantly increase line capacity, alleviate congestion, and facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains.
Additionally, the Kiul-Jhajha route plays a crucial role in connecting Kolkata and Haldia ports with Raxaul in Bihar near the Nepal border, handling substantial freight traffic associated with major industrial facilities like Barh STPP, Jawahar STPP, and Birganj ICD.
