India | November 26, 2024 In a major move to enhance transportation efficiency and reduce logistics costs, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved three multi-track railway projects with a total outlay of approximately ₹7,927 crore. These projects aim to streamline supply chains, bolster economic growth, and align with India’s sustainability goals.
Key Projects Approved
The approved railway projects span three critical corridors, promising enhanced operational capacity and reduced congestion:
- Jalgaon-Manmad Fourth Line (160 km)
- Bhusawal-Khandwa Third and Fourth Line (131 km)
- Prayagraj (Iradatganj)-Manikpur Third Line (84 km)
These projects, covering Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, will extend the railway network by 639 kilometers and involve seven districts, including aspirational districts like Khandwa and Chitrakoot.
Major Benefits of the Projects
Economic and Employment Growth
- Estimated to create 1 lakh direct person-days of employment during the four-year construction period.
- Enhanced connectivity for approximately 38 lakh people across 1,319 villages.
Tourism and Pilgrimage Boost
- Improved access to iconic sites such as:
- Jyotirlingas: Trimbakeshwar (Nashik), Omkareshwar (Khandwa), Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi).
- UNESCO Heritage Sites: Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Khajuraho Temples.
- Other attractions: Devgiri Fort, Asirgarh Fort, and Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Freight Capacity Expansion
- Additional freight capacity of 51 MTPA (Million Tons Per Annum) for key goods like coal, steel, fertilizers, and cement.
Environmental and Cost Benefits
- Reduction of 271 crore kg of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees.
- Reduced dependency on oil imports and lower logistics costs.
Alignment with PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan
The multi-track railway projects are integral to the PM Gati Shakti initiative, promoting seamless multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning. These projects embody the vision of a “self-reliant India” (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) by supporting economic growth and infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The Cabinet’s decision underlines its commitment to creating a sustainable and efficient transportation network. By reducing congestion and improving connectivity, these projects will significantly enhance passenger and freight movement, contribute to India’s climate goals, and accelerate regional development.
Future Prospects: The projects are set to transform Mumbai-Prayagraj-Varanasi corridors, with enhanced infrastructure paving the way for a robust and interconnected India.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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