Cabinet Approves ₹23,437 Crore Multi-Tracking Surge Across 6 States

NEW DELHI – In a major push for national infrastructure and logistics efficiency, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved three expansive railway multi-tracking projects on Tuesday. The initiatives, costing an estimated ₹23,437 crore, are set to transform the rail landscape across six states by 2031.

Expanding the Network

The projects will add approximately 901 km to the existing railway network, spanning 19 districts in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

The Three Key Corridors:

• Nagda–Mathura: Addition of 3rd and 4th lines (Central to Northern connectivity).
• Guntakal–Wadi: Addition of 3rd and 4th lines (Strengthening the South-Southwest corridor).
• Burhwal–Sitapur: Addition of 3rd and 4th lines (Critical for East-North movement).

Strategic and Economic Impact

Planned under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, these projects aim to decongest some of India’s busiest routes, which are essential for transporting coal, foodgrains, cement, and fertilizers.

• Operational Efficiency: The Railway Ministry noted that increased line capacity will significantly enhance service reliability and reduce bottlenecks.
• Freight Growth: The capacity augmentation is expected to handle an additional 60 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight.
• Environmental Gains: The shift to rail is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 185 crore kg—roughly equivalent to planting 7 crore trees—and save 37 crore litres of fuel.

Connecting People and Heritage

Beyond logistics, the multi-tracking initiative is designed to bring tangible benefits to rural and tourist sectors:

• Village Connectivity: The projects will provide seamless access to approximately 4,161 villages, impacting a population of roughly 83 lakhs.
• Tourism Boost: Enhanced rail links will improve access to several world-renowned spiritual and wildlife destinations, including:
  • Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain)
  • Mathura and Vrindavan
  • Ranthambore National Park
  • Kuno National Park
  • Mantralayam (Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt)

“These projects are a symbol of India’s boosting infrastructure and furthering economic growth,” Prime Minister Modi shared on social media, emphasizing that the upgrades will make the region more ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) through increased employment and development opportunities.