Cabinet Approves Two Multi-Tracking Rail Projects in Maharashtra and Gujarat, Expanding Network by 224 Kms

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved two multi-tracking projects under the Ministry of Railways, with a total estimated cost of Rs 2,781 crore. The projects will enhance rail connectivity across Maharashtra and Gujarat, adding approximately 224 km to the existing Indian Railways network.

The approved projects include:

• Devbhumi Dwarka (Okha) – Kanalus Doubling: 141 km, enhancing connectivity to Dwarkadhish temple and promoting overall development in the Saurashtra region.
• Badlapur – Karjat 3rd and 4th Line: 32 km, aimed at improving the Mumbai suburban corridor and ensuring seamless connectivity to Southern India.

The multi-tracking projects will improve operational efficiency, service reliability, and mobility, while decongesting busy routes. Approximately 585 villages, with a population of around 32 lakh, will benefit from enhanced rail connectivity.

The projects, aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, will strengthen multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency. The initiatives are expected to increase freight capacity by 18 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA), facilitating the transportation of commodities such as coal, salt, cement, POL, and containers.

The rail expansions will also contribute to India’s climate goals by reducing oil imports by an estimated 3 crore litres, lowering CO₂ emissions by 16 crore kg—equivalent to planting 64 lakh trees. The projects are part of the government’s vision of a New India, fostering regional development, employment, and self-reliance.