New Delhi: In a significant move, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to three crucial railway projects with a combined estimated cost of ₹6,456 crore. Let’s delve into the details:
- Enhancing Efficiency and Connectivity:
- These approved projects aim to enhance logistical efficiency by connecting previously unconnected areas, increasing the existing line capacity, and expanding the transport network.
- The new rail lines will provide direct connectivity, improve mobility, and enhance service reliability for Indian Railways.
- Notably, the multi-tracking proposal will ease operations and reduce congestion, addressing critical infrastructure needs on the busiest rail sections across the country.
- Vision of a New India:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “New India” aligns with these projects. They are designed to empower people in the region, fostering comprehensive development and creating employment and self-employment opportunities.
- The projects are part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity, emphasizing integrated planning and seamless movement of people, goods, and services.
- Project Highlights:
- The three projects will span seven districts across four states: Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh.
- Approximately 300 kilometers of new rail lines will be added to the existing Indian Railways network.
- A total of 14 new stations will be constructed, enhancing connectivity to aspirational districts like Nuapada and East Singhbum.
- These projects are expected to benefit around 1,300 villages and approximately 11 lakh people.
- Multi-Tracking for Holistic Connectivity:
- The multi-tracking project, a key approval component, will further enhance connectivity. It is set to benefit approximately 1,300 villages and around 19 lakh people.
- Freight traffic will also see significant improvements, with an estimated additional capacity of 45 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
- Indian Railways, as an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation, will contribute to climate goals by reducing oil imports (10 crore liters) and lowering CO2 emissions (equivalent to planting 9.7 crore trees).
In summary, these rail projects represent a strategic investment in India’s transportation infrastructure, fostering economic growth, connectivity, and sustainability.
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