Cabinet Approves 4 Railway Projects Worth ₹24,634 Crore

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), headed by PM Narendra Modi, has approved four major railway projects under the Gati Shakti National Master Plan. The project is valued at approximately ₹24,634 crore and will increase the Indian Railways network by almost 894 kilometres. The new multi-tracking projects will span 18 districts in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh.
These are also expected to enhance rail capacity, reduce congestion, and improve connectivity across major routes of central India. Upon completion, they will benefit approximately 85 lakh people, and aid the growth of two districts: Rajnandgaon and Vidisha.
State-Wise Coverage of Newly Approved Railway Projects
The approved railway projects focus on adding third and fourth lines along key routes to enhance capacity, efficiency, and regional connectivity. Here is the division of the projects:
Project | States | Distance (km) | Line Type |
Wardha – Bhusawal | Maharashtra | 314 km | 3rd & 4th Line |
Gondia – Dongargarh | Maharashtra & Chhattisgarh | 84 km | 4th Line |
Vadodara – Ratlam | Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh | 259 km | 3rd & 4th Line |
Itarsi – Bhopal – Bina | Madhya Pradesh | 237 km | 4th Line |
Social and Economic Benefits of Indian Railways Expansion
Key Benefits include:
- Connectivity: The new lines will link 3,633 villages across 18 districts, improving access for approximately 85.8 lakh residents.
- Boost to Local Economies: The increased connectivity will improve trade and logistics efficiency, benefiting industries, agriculture, and small enterprises within the region.
- Employment Opportunities: The construction and maintenance periods are likely to generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities.
- Tourism Development: It will connect tourist destinations, including Sanchi, Bhimbetka, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Nawegaon National Park.
Final Thought
The Ministry of Railways will oversee implementation in coordination with state governments and relevant departments. Detailed project execution plans involve phased construction, track modernisation, and system upgrade to ensure safety, speed, and sustainability. These projects align with the government’s ongoing focus on infrastructure-led growth and a future-ready railway system.
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