Jharkhand: In a significant move toward transforming India’s railway infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved two critical multi-tracking railway projects under the Ministry of Railways, with a combined investment of ₹6,405 crore. These projects, which fall under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, will extend the existing railway network by approximately 318 kilometres across seven districts in three states: Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Project Highlights
1. Koderma – Barkakana Doubling (133 kms)
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Region: Jharkhand
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Significance:
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Passes through a major coal-producing zone.
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Acts as a strategic and shortest rail corridor connecting Patna and Ranchi.
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Will improve freight movement of coal and other minerals, reducing travel time and operational delays.
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2. Ballari – Chikjajur Doubling (185 kms)
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Region: Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
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Districts Covered: Ballari and Chitradurga (Karnataka), Anantapur (Andhra Pradesh)
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Significance:
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Crucial for iron ore, cement, and industrial freight.
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Will reduce congestion and improve service reliability.
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Socio-Economic and Environmental Benefits
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Total Cost: ₹6,405 crore
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Employment Generation:
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Expected to generate 108 lakh human-days of direct employment during construction phase.
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Villages Benefited:
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Approximately 1,408 villages with a population of over 28.19 lakh will be positively impacted.
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Enhanced Connectivity:
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Improved rail access for remote districts.
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Faster movement of passengers and goods.
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Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision:
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Empowerment through development and job creation.
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Support for local industries and farmers with improved market access.
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Strategic and Environmental Impact
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Freight Capacity Augmentation:
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Estimated to handle additional 49 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum) of cargo.
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Essential commodities include coal, cement, fertilizers, agricultural produce, iron ore, steel, and petroleum products.
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Energy and Environmental Gains:
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Expected reduction of oil imports by 52 crore litres.
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Estimated reduction of 264 crore kg of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees.
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Supports India’s commitment to climate goals and carbon neutrality through cleaner logistics.
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Aligned with PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan
The multitracking projects are direct outcomes of the PM Gati Shakti initiative for integrated and holistic infrastructure development. Through multi-modal connectivity and seamless planning, the approved projects will significantly decrease logistics cost, boost regional trade, and modernize India’s transportation ecosystem.
Conclusion of these Railway Projects
These transformative railway projects reflect the government’s commitment to a modern, sustainable, and inclusive India. With enhanced infrastructure, reduced emissions, job creation, and improved freight efficiency, Indian Railways continues to drive the nation’s economic engine while aligning with the broader vision of ‘New India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
For more details check press release on PIB website.
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