Indian Railways has received a significant boost with the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approving four expansive projects valued at approximately ₹11,169 crore. These developments are set to extend the rail network by 574 kilometres across six states, promising enhanced operational efficiency and connectivity. Crucially, these initiatives align with India’s ambitious environmental goals, aiming to substantially reduce carbon emissions and foster a more sustainable and eco-friendly transport landscape nationwide.
The approved projects span critical corridors across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand. Key developments include the construction of a fourth railway line between Itarsi and Nagpur, a crucial artery for central India. Furthermore, the railway line between Aurangabad and Parbhani will undergo doubling, significantly enhancing capacity in Maharashtra. In the eastern region, third and fourth lines will be added between Aluabari Road and New Jalpaiguri, as well as between Dangoaposi and Jaroli, addressing long-standing capacity constraints in high-traffic zones.
These strategic expansions are meticulously designed to bolster operational efficiency and improve multimodal connectivity across the vast Indian rail network. By adding new lines and doubling existing ones, the projects will reduce bottlenecks, allow for higher train frequencies, and facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight traffic. This enhanced logistical performance is vital for supporting industrial growth, improving supply chain efficiencies, and fostering economic development in the regions traversed, thereby ensuring equitable access to markets and opportunities.
A core benefit of this extensive railway expansion lies in its profound environmental gains. The initiative is projected to reduce India’s oil imports by an impressive 16 crore litres and cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by a staggering 515 crore kilograms. This environmental impact is comparable to planting 20 crore trees, underscoring the significant contribution of these projects to India’s zero-net-carbon aspirations. By promoting rail as a more energy-efficient and lower-emission mode of transport compared to road freight, these investments are fundamental to building eco-friendly and sustainable cities and regions.
Moreover, the projects are set to bring substantial social benefits, enhancing connectivity for approximately 2,309 villages with a combined population of 43.60 lakh. Improved rail access will facilitate easier movement for rural communities, connecting them to urban centres for employment, education, and healthcare. This focus on inclusive development ensures that the benefits of modern infrastructure reach all sections of society, fostering a more gender-neutral and equitable growth trajectory across the diverse states involved. The government emphasises the projects’ strong alignment with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, a comprehensive framework for integrated infrastructure development.
This significant investment by the Indian Railways is a testament to the nation’s commitment to building a robust, modern, and sustainable transport backbone. By simultaneously addressing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion, these projects are poised to accelerate India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation, ensuring that its expanding cities and regions are resilient, well-connected, and environmentally responsible.
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New Delhi Cabinet Clears ₹11,169 Crore Rail Projects Adding 574 Km
