Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval for two Indian Railways projects, with a combined expenditure of Rs. 6,405 crore.The first project involves doubling the Koderma-Barkakana track (133 kms), which runs through Jharkhand’s primary coal-producing region. This route also provides the most direct and efficient railway connection between Patna and Ranchi.The second project is the doubling of the Ballari-Chikjajur line (185 kms), extending across Karnataka’s Ballari and Chitradurga districts, and Andhra Pradesh’s Anantapur district.The railway expansion projects span across seven districts in Jharkhand, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, adding approximately 318 kilometres to the existing Indian Railways network.The multi-tracking initiatives will benefit roughly 1,408 villages, serving a population of about 28.19 lakh residents.These routes are crucial for transporting various commodities including coal, iron ore, finished steel, cement, fertilisers, agricultural products, and petroleum items. The enhanced capacity will accommodate additional freight traffic of 49 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). As railways provide an environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient transport solution, these developments will support climate objectives and reduce national logistics expenses. The project will decrease oil consumption (52 Crore Litres) and CO2 emissions (264 Crore Kg), equivalent to planting 11 Crore trees.These infrastructure enhancements will boost the Indian Railways’ operational capacity, leading to better efficiency and reliability in service delivery, according to CCEA press release. The multi-tracking initiatives aim to optimize railway operations and reduce traffic congestion. The initiatives stem from the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on multi-modal connectivity. Through coordinated planning, these initiatives aim to establish uninterrupted connectivity for the movement of people, goods and services.
