Government Approves ₹18,509 Crore Railway Expansion Projects
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given the green light to three significant railway projects worth approximately ₹18,509 crore. This initiative aims to enhance the operational capacity of Indian Railways, focusing on increasing line capacity through the addition of third and fourth lines in key sections.
The approved projects include the Kasara-Manmad line, the Delhi-Ambala line, and the Ballari-Hosapete line. Together, these enhancements will add around 389 kilometers to the existing railway network, significantly boosting mobility and improving reliability for rail services across the country.
Enhancing Connectivity for Rural and Urban Areas
The multi-tracking initiative is expected to benefit roughly 3,902 villages, impacting a population of approximately 97 lakh people. This development aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” aiming to foster comprehensive regional growth that enhances employment and self-employment opportunities for local communities.
Boosting Tourism and Freight Transport
In addition to improved passenger services, the new railway lines are strategically designed to facilitate the movement of essential commodities, including coal, steel, and food grains. The projects are anticipated to enable an increase of 96 Million Tonnes Per Annum in freight traffic.
Moreover, the upgraded rail network will enhance access to numerous tourist attractions across India, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, the Bhavli Dam, and several important religious sites. This makes the railway expansion crucial not only for economic development but also for promoting tourism in these regions.
Commitment to Sustainability
As an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, these railway improvements will also contribute to achieving national climate goals. The expected reduction in oil imports is about 22 crore liters, along with a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions amounting to 111 crore kg—equivalent to planting four crore trees. This dual focus on efficiency and sustainability underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing public transport while addressing environmental concerns.
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