New Delhi, 10 March (H.S.): The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved two pivotal multitracking railway projects today, expanding Indian Railways' network by 192 km across West Bengal and Jharkhand at a total cost of ₹4,474 crore, with completion targeted by 2030-31.

Project Details

The initiatives encompass the Sainthia-Pakur 4th line and Santragachi-Kharagpur 4th line, spanning five districts and serving 5,652 villages with a combined population of 1.47 crore. These upgrades promise enhanced mobility, operational efficiency, and congestion relief, aligning with PM Gati Shakti's multi-modal connectivity vision.

Economic and Eco Impact

Critical for freight like coal, cement, steel, and foodgrains, the lines will handle an extra 31 MTPA, cutting logistics costs, oil imports by 6 crore litres, and CO2 emissions equivalent to 1 crore trees—bolstering climate goals and self-reliance.

Tourism Boost

Improved access to landmarks such as Bolpur-Shantiniketan, Nandikeshwari and Tarapith temples, Patachitra villages, Dhadika Forest, and Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary will spur regional tourism and employment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar