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The Cabinet has approved three major railway projects worth ₹6,456 crore to enhance connectivity across West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. These projects, which are expected to be completed by 2028-29, will add approximately 300 route kilometers (RKMs) to the national rail network, significantly improving regional transportation and economic growth.
The first project involves a new railway line between Jamshedpur and Asansol, connecting Purulia with an additional 121 RKMs. With an investment of ₹2,170 crore, this project will strengthen the connectivity between Jharkhand and West Bengal, facilitating the transport of coal and iron ore to steel plants in Burnpur and Durgapur. This new line will also improve the efficiency of key trunk routes, including the Delhi-Howrah and Howrah-Mumbai corridors.
The second project focuses on doubling the tracks between Sardega in Odisha's Sundargarh district and Bhalumuda in Chhattisgarh's Raigarh district. Covering 37 kilometers and costing ₹1,360 crore, this initiative aims to boost connectivity between the two states, enhancing the region's transport infrastructure.
The third project, a multi-tracking initiative between Bargarh Road and Nawapara Road in Odisha, will cover 138 RKMs with an estimated cost of ₹2,926 crore. This project will benefit the districts of Bargarh and Nawapara, improving accessibility and supporting the region's economic development.
These projects are expected to connect approximately 2,600 villages, impacting a population of nearly 30 lakh. The capacity expansion will also support an additional 45 million tonnes of freight traffic annually, significantly reducing CO2 emissions by 240 crore kg, equivalent to planting 9.7 crore trees.
Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that these rail projects will not only improve regional connectivity but also contribute to environmental sustainability by lowering carbon emissions and enhancing freight capacity.
News by Rahul Yelligetti
