New Delhi, 17 June (H.S.): Indian Railways has approved a series of major infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the country's railway network, enhancing freight capacity, improving operational safety, and boosting urban connectivity. The approved projects, with a combined investment of nearly Rs 1,200 crore, include the Adipur–Bhuj doubling project in Gujarat's Kutch region, the Somatne–Chikhli chord line project in Maharashtra, a signalling modernisation project under the Eastern Railway, and the reconstruction of the Shastri Road Over Bridge (ROB) in Indore Yard.

The Ministry of Railways announced the approvals on Wednesday. According to the ministry, these projects reflect Indian Railways' continued commitment to developing future-ready infrastructure, expanding network capacity, promoting multimodal connectivity, and creating a more efficient freight transportation system. The initiatives are expected to improve the reliability, safety, and operational efficiency of railway services while meeting the country's growing transportation, logistics, and economic requirements.

According to the Railways, the Rs 493 crore Adipur–Bhuj doubling project will significantly enhance rail connectivity and line capacity in the Kutch region. The project will facilitate the operation of two additional passenger train services in each direction every day and enable the transportation of an additional 12 million tonnes of freight annually.

The Rs 172 crore Somatne–Chikhli chord line project in Maharashtra is expected to ease congestion at Panvel Junction and reduce freight train detention by nearly 110 minutes. The project will improve logistics efficiency and streamline freight movement across the region.

Under the Rs 405 crore signalling modernisation project in the Eastern Railway zone, relay-based interlocking systems at 32 stations will be replaced with advanced electronic interlocking systems. The upgrade is expected to enhance operational safety, improve reliability, and enable faster detection and resolution of technical faults.

Meanwhile, the Rs 139 crore reconstruction of the Shastri Road Over Bridge in Indore Yard will include the construction of a four-lane road overbridge along with service roads. The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion while ensuring safer and smoother movement for both rail and road traffic.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar