PM-Gati Shakti: Four Multitracking Railway Projects Worth Rs 24,634 Crore Approved

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today approved four major multitracking railway projects, marking a significant step in enhancing the nation's infrastructure.

These initiatives, with a total cost of Rs 24,634 crore, aim to expand the Indian Railways network by approximately 894 kilometres across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh. The projects focus on adding third and fourth lines to congested routes, improving efficiency and reducing bottlenecks.

Key sections include the 314-kilometre Wardha-Bhusawal stretch in Maharashtra, where officials plan to build additional lines alongside 4 important bridges and 537 minor ones.

Other routes encompass

- the 84-kilometre Gondia-Dongargarh line spanning Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh,

- the 259-kilometre Vadodara-Ratlam corridor in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh,

- and the 237-kilometre Itarsi-Bhopal-Bina section in Madhya Pradesh.

These developments will connect 3,633 villages, benefiting a population of about 8. 5 million, including two aspirational districts: Vidisha and Rajnandgaon.

The upgrades align with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, emphasising multi-modal connectivity and logistical efficiency.

Authorities expect the projects to handle an additional 78 million tonnes of freight per year, transporting commodities like coal, cement, and food grains. This expansion will streamline operations, boost self-reliance in regions, and create employment opportunities through comprehensive development.

Furthermore, the routes will enhance access to tourist destinations such as the Satpura Tiger Reserve, Sanchi, and Nawegaon National Park, potentially attracting more visitors.

Environmentally, the projects promise to reduce oil imports by 280 million litres and cut CO2 emissions by 1. 39 billion kilograms, equivalent to planting 60 million trees. Completion is targeted for 2030-31, supporting India's climate goals and economic growth.