Cabinet approves seven rail projects worth ₹32,500 crore to boost connectivity

Cabinet approves seven rail projects worth ₹32,500 crore to boost connectivity: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved seven major railway projects totaling 32,500 crore in expenditure. These projects, announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, are set to revolutionize Indian Railways’ efficiency and capacity through transformative initiatives. The projects, adopting the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, are expected to usher in a new era of connectivity and accessibility across various regions.

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Unveiling the Transformation

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a recent briefing, unveiled the strategic significance and anticipated impact of the seven multi-tracking projects. Vaishnaw emphasised the interconnected nature of these projects, framing them as catalysts for the modernization of Indian Railways, emphasising a holistic perspective.

Enhancing Connectivity and Accessibility

The total length of the projects is estimated to be 2,339 km, effectively increasing the existing rail network. This expansion will play a pivotal role in bolstering connectivity and accessibility, enabling smoother transportation across 35 districts in states including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

Relieving Congestion and Boosting Efficiency

Beyond mere expansion, the projects are geared toward alleviating congestion and elevating operational efficiency within the rail system. The focus on increasing freight capacity has the ability to absorb an additional 200 million tonnes of freight traffic each year.

Central Government’s Wholehearted Funding

An outstanding feature of these initiatives is the complete funding provided by the central government, reflecting a steadfast commitment to revitalizing the nation’s rail infrastructure. This financial backing underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring the success of these transformational projects.

Catalysts for Employment Generation

The impact of these projects extends beyond infrastructure improvements. With an eye on employment generation, the initiatives are set to create approximately 7.06 crore person-days of work, benefiting residents in the states where the projects are being executed. These projects include vital routes for carrying a wide range of goods, including food grains, fertilisers, coal, cement, iron and steel, and others.

Key Projects and Their Significance

1. Gorakhpur-Cantt-Valmiki Nagar Doubling: Enhancing connectivity for a critical transportation route.
2. Son Nagar-Andal Multi Tracking: Boosting efficiency through multi-tracking technology.
3. Nergundi-Barang Third Line: Addressing congestion and enhancing operational flow.
4. Khurda Road-Vizianagaram Third Line: Expanding capacity for smoother transportation.
5. Mudkhed-Medchal and Mahbubnagar-Dhone Doubling: Unlocking potential for increased freight movement.
6. Guntur-Bibinagar Doubling: Strengthening transportation infrastructure for varied commodities.
7. Chopan-Chunar Doubling and Samakhiali-Gandhidham Quadrupling: Streamlining transportation for diverse goods.

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