The Network Planning Group (NPG) evaluated six major infrastructure projects under the PM Gati Shakti Masterplan, at the 45th session meeting chaired by the special secretary (logistics division), of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

According to an official announcement, projects linked to renewable energy, roads, and railways have been approved by the NPG.

This includes one project by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), three by the Ministry of Railways and two by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India. 

These projects will be developed using the integrated and holistic approach following the PM Gati Shakti principles — minimising disruptions, ensuring quick completion of work with cost efficiency.

Renewable Energy Project

The NPG analysed a distinctive project to establish an inter-state transmission system for renewable energy in Ladakh.

The project initiated by the MNRE marks a significant step towards India's target for clean energy by 2030.

Officials have declared this as an “important and one-of-a-kind project and a significant milestone in achieving the Government of India's objective of attaining 500 GW capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030," as per reports.

In December 2022, the Ministry of Power had constituted a high-level committee under chairperson, Central Electricity Authority, for planning the transmission system required for having 500 GW of non-fossil fuel based installed capacity by 2030.

The transmission system plans identified major upcoming non-fossil fuel based generation centres in the country — including Renewable energy (RE) park in Ladakh, along with Fatehgarh, Bhadla, Bikaner in Rajasthan, Khavda in Gujarat, Anantapur, Kurnool RE zones in Andhra Pradesh and offshore wind potentials in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.

Other Infrastructure Projects Approved

Further, three projects were proposed by the Ministry of Railways. This includes construction of elevated railway track for Kanpur Anwarganj–Mandhana, a city logistics project which aims to enhance line capacity for railways and improve logistics in the area.

Additionally, the ministry proposed construction of rail bridge across river Ganga with the new railway line connecting Vikramshila–Katareah railway station.

This project aims to improve connectivity for the transportation of food grains, cement, coal and quarry products to various economic nodes in North Bihar and Northeast region.

The project plans to increase transport infrastructure to five rakes a day.

A proposal for the 178.28 km Ajmer-Chittaurgarh railway line was reviewed, which would primarily benefit the industrial and tribal areas of Rajasthan, such as Ajmer, Bhilwara, and Chittaurgarh districts.

The PM Gati Shakti NMP was launched in October 2021 with the objectives of holistically integrating the interventions of various ministries and departments, and addressing the gaps to ensure seamless movement of people, goods and services.

The NPG formed consists of heads of the network planning wing of respective infrastructure ministries and will assist the Empowered Group of Secretaries, which is headed by the cabinet secretary.

The group aims to guide all the departments and ministries responsible for creation of economic zones and connectivity infrastructure starting from the planning phase, and will play a crucial role in the required coordination between the ministries and departments.