Indian Government Announces Railway Expansion to Boost Connectivity
- Muhammad Ahmad
- Nov 26, 2024
- 2 min read
₹7,927 crore rail expansion projects to ease congestion, create jobs, and cut CO₂ emissions
Three critical multi-tracking projects to expand 639 km of Indian Railways network
The Cabinet has approved railway projects worth ₹7,927 crore to expand lines in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
Projects will decongest busy routes, create direct employment for over one lakh human days, and support India's climate goals.
Improved connectivity will spur economic activity, tourism, and self-reliance in aspirational districts.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister has greenlit three significant multi-tracking projects under the Ministry of Railways. These projects, with a total investment of ₹7,927 crore, will increase the rail network by 639 km and are set to be completed within four years. They encompass the Jalgaon–Manmad 4th line (160 km), Bhusawal–Khandwa 3rd & 4th line (131 km), and Prayagraj (Iradatganj)–Manikpur 3rd Line (84 km).
These developments target the busiest Mumbai–Prayagraj route and two aspirational districts, Khandwa and Chitrakoot, benefiting over 38 lakh residents across 1,319 villages.
Technical Focus
Network Expansion: Adding 639 km to the Indian Railways network, spanning seven districts across three states.
Freight Capacity Boost: Handling 51 MTPA of freight, supporting key industries like agriculture, coal, and cement.
Environmental Gains: Saving 271 crore kg of CO₂, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees.
The projects will improve logistics efficiency by easing rail congestion, enhancing the movement of passengers and goods, and reducing transportation costs. Highlighting the strategic importance, officials noted that these initiatives align with PM-Gati Shakti's multi-modal connectivity vision and support local communities with increased employment and economic opportunities.
Prime Minister emphasized the transformative potential of these initiatives: “These projects reflect our commitment to infrastructure development that supports economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.”
In addition to economic benefits, the projects will enhance connectivity for pilgrims travelling to prominent religious sites such as Trimbakeshwar, Omkareshwar, and Varanasi, and boost access to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Khajuraho and Ellora Caves. Improved rail access to tourist attractions like Devgiri Fort and Keoti Falls will also promote tourism.
Upon completion, these projects will not only address logistical inefficiencies but also lay the groundwork for a modern, self-reliant India while promoting sustainable development.