₹ 6k cr multi tracking projects, 2 new railway lines get cabinet nod

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Last Updated30/08/2024

On August 28, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved three significant projects proposed by the Ministry of Railways.
These include two new railway lines and one multi-tracking project, with an estimated cost of ₹6,456 crore. Spanning across four states—Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh—these projects are set to extend the railway network by 296 kilometers.
The approval underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the country's railway infrastructure, boosting economic development, and supporting the transportation of both passengers and industrial goods.

Length: 121 km
States Covered: Jharkhand and West Bengal
Cost: ₹2,170 crore
Significance: This line is an essential corridor connecting the Delhi-Howrah and Mumbai-Howrah routes, facilitating smoother transportation of industrial goods and passengers.
The project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of "Purvodaya," which aims at the economic development of eastern India.
The shift from road to rail for cargo transport is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 72 crore kg of CO2, equivalent to planting 3 crore trees.

Length: 37 km
States Covered: Odisha and Chhattisgarh
Significance: This line will enhance connectivity between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, improving the transportation of essential commodities such as coal, iron ore, and steel. The project is expected to boost regional economic activities and improve logistics for industrial goods.

Length: 138 km
State Covered: Odisha
Cost: ₹2,926 crore
Significance: This line is crucial for the "rice bowl" district of Bargarh in Odisha, known for its high agricultural productivity, comparable to Punjab and Haryana. It will support the transportation of agricultural products and promote the famous Cotton Sambalpuri handloom (sari) textile products.
The line will also enhance connectivity to the Narsinghnath temple, a well-known pilgrimage site, thereby boosting local tourism and the economy.

New Stations: The projects include the construction of 14 new railway stations, which will improve accessibility for approximately 1,300 villages, benefiting a population of about 11 lakh people.
Economic Impact: These railway lines are expected to facilitate the efficient transportation of agricultural products, fertilizers, coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and limestone. This will not only reduce transportation costs but also strengthen supply chains in these critical sectors.
Environmental Impact: The shift from road to rail for cargo transportation will contribute to significant environmental benefits, including a reduction in carbon emissions.