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The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken a significant step towards strengthening the country's transportation infrastructure by approving three crucial railway projects. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) gave its nod to these projects, totaling an estimated cost of ₹6,456 crore, signifying a substantial investment in enhancing connectivity and mobility across the nation. These projects, strategically located across four states - Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh - are set to expand the Indian Railways network by an impressive 300 km, impacting the lives of millions.
The approved projects consist of two new railway lines and one multi-tracking initiative, each designed to address specific challenges and contribute to the overall improvement of the Indian Railways system. The multi-tracking proposal is particularly significant as it aims to alleviate congestion and enhance operational efficiency on some of the busiest railway sections. This initiative will not only improve the flow of passenger and freight traffic but also lead to a reduction in travel time and an overall improvement in service reliability. The new railway lines, on the other hand, will provide much-needed direct connectivity between various regions, opening up new economic opportunities and fostering social integration.
The positive impacts of these projects extend far beyond improved connectivity. The new railway lines are expected to connect around 1,300 villages and serve a population of approximately 1.1 million, bringing essential services and opportunities to previously underserved areas. Furthermore, the projects will be instrumental in facilitating the transportation of crucial commodities such as agricultural products, fertilizers, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and limestone, boosting economic activity and supporting the growth of key industries. This emphasis on freight transportation is particularly significant as it contributes to the overall efficiency of the supply chain, reduces logistics costs, and promotes economic development across the country. The government estimates that the capacity augmentation from these projects will result in an additional 45 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) in freight traffic, further solidifying the role of railways as a vital engine of economic growth in India.
Source: Centre approves 3 railway projects: 300 km of new tracks, 14 stations