The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved two strategic multitracking projects under Indian Railways, totaling ₹6,405 crore, to enhance connectivity and freight movement across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Spanning 318 km, the Koderma–Barkakana and Ballari–Chikjajur doubling lines will improve logistics efficiency, benefit over 28 lakh people, and cut carbon emissions, aligning with India’s sustainability goals and economic self-reliance vision.
Approved Railway Projects
Koderma–Barkakana Doubling (133 km)
- State: Jharkhand
- Importance: Passes through coal-rich areas and connects Patna to Ranchi via the shortest route.
Ballari–Chikjajur Doubling (185 km)
- States: Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
- Districts: Ballari, Chitradurga (Karnataka) & Anantapur (AP)
Objectives and Impact
- Enhance Mobility & Efficiency: Improved line capacity, reduced congestion, and better service reliability.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduce oil import by approx. 52 crore litres
- Cut CO₂ emissions by 264 crore kg (equivalent to planting 11 crore trees)
- Support Freight Transport: Handle 49 MTPA of additional freight, covering:
- Coal, steel, cement, fertilizers, petroleum, and agriculture products
