Cabinet Approves ₹18,658 Crore Multitracking Projects to Boost Indian Railways’ Efficiency

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved four multitracking projects across Indian Railways, aimed at enhancing line capacity, improving logistics efficiency, and supporting sustainable rail operations. The total cost of the projects is estimated at ₹18,658 crore, with completion targeted by 2030-31.

Key Railway Expansion Projects

The approved projects will add 1,247 km of new railway tracks, covering 15 districts across Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. The four major projects include:

• Sambalpur – Jarapda (3rd & 4th Line)
• Jharsuguda – Sason (3rd & 4th Line)
• Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Parmalkasa (5th & 6th Line)
• Gondia – Balharshah Doubling

These expansions will ease congestion, enhance operational efficiency, and improve the reliability of passenger and freight services.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The projects will contribute significantly to India’s economic growth, generating 379 lakh human-days of direct employment during construction. Additionally, they will provide better connectivity to 3,350 villages and 47.25 lakh people, including two aspirational districts—Gadchiroli and Rajnandgaon.

With 19 new stations planned, the Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Parmalkasa project will offer direct connectivity to Baloda Bazar, facilitating the development of new industrial hubs, including cement plants.

Boosting Freight Transport & Reducing Logistics Costs

These railway projects will support the transportation of key commodities such as coal, iron ore, steel, cement, fertilizers, limestone, and agricultural products. The capacity expansion is expected to handle an additional 88.77 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight traffic, making supply chains more efficient and cost-effective.

By reducing dependence on road transport, Indian Railways aims to cut oil imports by 95 crore litres, lowering CO₂ emissions by 477 crore kg—equivalent to the plantation of 19 crore trees. This aligns with India’s climate goals and promotes a greener transportation network.

PM Gati Shakti: Driving Infrastructure Growth

The multitracking projects are part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, ensuring seamless multi-modal connectivity. These developments support “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) by unlocking employment opportunities and accelerating regional development.

With these strategic expansions, Indian Railways is set to revolutionize passenger and freight movement, strengthening India’s transportation infrastructure for a faster, greener, and more efficient future.