Delhi, 28 May (H.S.): To boost line capacity, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved two multitracking projects within Indian Railways aimed at facilitating faster and more seamless transportation for passengers and goods. These projects include the Ratlam-Nagda 3rd and 4th line and the Wardha-Balharshah 4th line, with a combined estimated cost of Rs 3,399 crore and completion expected by 2029-30. They result from the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, promoting multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning.

Covering four districts in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, these initiatives will expand the Indian Railways network by approximately 176 kilometers, improving accessibility for around 784 villages with a population of nearly 19.74 lakh. The routes are crucial for transporting commodities like coal, cement, and agricultural products. Capacity enhancements are anticipated to yield an additional freight load of 18.40 MTPA, reducing logistics costs and oil imports while lowering CO2 emissions, equating to the planting of 4 crore trees. Furthermore, the projects will create an estimated 74 lakh human-days of direct employment during construction.

Overall, these developments are expected to optimize supply chains, enhance mobility and operational efficiency, and align with Prime Minister Modi's vision for a self-reliant and economically progressive India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar