The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved two railway multi-tracking projects worth ₹3,907 crore in Odisha and Jharkhand. The projects will add 145 km to the Indian Railways network, enhance freight capacity, improve passenger connectivity for 14 lakh people across 1,526 villages, and support India’s logistics and climate goals under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
Key Highlights
- CCEA approves two railway multi-tracking projects worth ₹3,907 crore.
- 145 km of additional railway lines to strengthen connectivity in Odisha and Jharkhand.
- Projects will benefit 1,526 villages with a population of around 14 lakh.
- Rail capacity enhancement to support 44 MTPA of additional freight traffic while reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved two railway multi-tracking projects with a total investment of ₹3,907 crore to strengthen railway infrastructure in Odisha and Jharkhand. The projects will add approximately 145 kilometres to the Indian Railways network, significantly improving line capacity, operational efficiency and service reliability while supporting the growing demand for passenger and freight transportation.
The projects have been planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on integrated infrastructure development and seamless multi-modal connectivity. Once completed, the railway expansion will improve connectivity for 1,526 villages, benefiting nearly 14 lakh people. The upgraded railway network will also provide easier access to important tourist destinations, including the Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, Shree Baladevjew Temple, and Meghahatuburu Hills, boosting regional tourism and economic activity.
The approved routes are strategically important for transporting key commodities such as coal, iron ore, dolomite, limestone and gypsum, which are critical to India’s industrial and infrastructure sectors. The projects are expected to facilitate an additional freight capacity of 44 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), easing congestion on existing routes and improving the efficiency of logistics across eastern India. Enhanced freight movement will also help industries reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain reliability.
The Government has highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of the projects. As Indian Railways remains one of the most energy-efficient modes of transport, the expanded rail infrastructure is expected to save nearly six crore litres of imported fuel and reduce 29 crore kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to planting around one crore trees. The projects are also expected to create new employment and self-employment opportunities, contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat through regional development and improved infrastructure.
Conclusion
The approval of the ₹3,907 crore railway multi-tracking projects reflects the Government’s continued focus on expanding modern railway infrastructure. By improving connectivity, increasing freight capacity, reducing logistics costs and promoting sustainable transport, the projects will contribute significantly to economic growth in Odisha, Jharkhand and the wider eastern region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What has the Cabinet approved?
The CCEA has approved two railway multi-tracking projects worth ₹3,907 crore covering parts of Odisha and Jharkhand.
Q2. How much railway network will be added?
The projects will add approximately 145 kilometres to the Indian Railways network.
Q3. How many people will benefit from these projects?
The projects are expected to benefit around 14 lakh people living in 1,526 villages.
Q4. What are the major benefits of these railway projects?
The projects will improve passenger connectivity, increase freight capacity, reduce logistics costs, lower carbon emissions and support regional economic development.
