The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved three major multitracking projects for Indian Railways at a cost of approximately ₹7,927 crore. The initiative aims to enhance rail connectivity, reduce congestion, and contribute to economic growth.

The projects include the Jalgaon-Manmad 4th Line (160 km), Bhusawal-Khandwa 3rd & 4th Line (131 km), and Prayagraj (Iradatganj)-Manikpur 3rd Line (84 km), covering a total length of 639 km. These tracks are part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, designed to integrate multi-modal connectivity and ensure the seamless movement of people and goods.

According to an official release, the projects span seven districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, impacting around 1,319 villages and benefiting a population of approximately 38 lakh. Notably, the improved connectivity will serve two aspirational districts, Khandwa and Chitrakoot, and enhance the Mumbai-Prayagraj-Varanasi route, a key rail corridor.

The enhanced rail infrastructure is expected to accommodate more passenger trains, making it easier for pilgrims to access religious sites such as Trimbakeshwar in Nashik, Omkareshwar in Khandwa, Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, and other locations in Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Shirdi. Tourists will also benefit from improved access to heritage sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves and Khajuraho.

On the freight front, the projects are poised to add an estimated 51 million tonnes of annual freight capacity, facilitating the transport of agricultural produce, coal, steel, and cement. This is expected to lower logistics costs and stimulate economic growth.

The environmentally friendly rail infrastructure will contribute to India’s climate goals, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 271 crore kilograms annually—equivalent to planting 11 crore trees. “These projects not only support economic development but also underline India’s commitment to sustainability,” the release said.

(Inputs from ANI)