In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s rail infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to six crucial railway projects. These projects, with an estimated total cost of approximately Rs. 12,343 crore, will receive 100% funding from the Central Government.
Doubling of Railway Line in Gujarat-Rajasthan
Among the six approved projects, one stands out for its impact on connectivity in the Gujarat-Rajasthan region. The project involves the doubling of the railway line on the Luni–Bhildi stretch, covering a length of 271 kilometers. The estimated expenditure for this critical development is Rs. 3,531 crore.
Enhancing Operations and Reducing Congestion
The multi-tracking proposals put forth by the Ministry of Railways are expected to significantly ease operations and reduce congestion on some of the busiest sections across the Indian Railways network. This move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vision of a New India, aiming to make the region “Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant) through comprehensive development.
| S.No. | Name of Section for doubling stretch | Length in (kms.) | Estimates cost (Rs.) | State |
| 1 | Ajmer-Chanderiya | 178.28 | 1813.28 | Rajasthan |
| 2 | Jaipur-Sawai Madhopur | 131.27 | 1268.57 | Rajasthan |
| 3. | Luni-Samdari-Bhildi | 271.97 | 3530.92 | Gujarat & Rajasthan |
| 4 | Agthori-Kamakhya with new Rail cum Road Briedge | 7.062 | 1650.37 | Assam |
| 5 | Lumding-Furkating | 140 | 2333.84 | Assam & Nagaland |
| 6 | Motumari-Vishnupuram and Rail over Rail at Motumari | 88.81 | 1746.20 | Telangana & Andhra Pradesh |
Expanding the Rail Network
The six projects span 18 districts in six states: Rajasthan, Assam, Telangana, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Nagaland. Collectively, they will add 1,020 kilometers to the existing Indian Railways network. Furthermore, these projects are anticipated to generate employment opportunities, providing approximately 3 crore man-days of work for the people of these states.
PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan
These ambitious rail projects are a direct outcome of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on multi-modal connectivity. Integrated planning has made these developments possible, ensuring seamless movement of people, goods, and services.
Vital Routes for Commodities
The newly approved rail lines serve as essential routes for transporting a variety of commodities, including food grains, fertilizers, coal, cement, iron, steel, fly-ash, clinker, limestone, and petroleum products. The capacity augmentation works are projected to result in an additional freight traffic volume of 87 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
Environment-Friendly and Efficient
Indian Railways, known for its environment-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation, plays a dual role: contributing to climate goals and minimizing logistics costs. By reducing oil imports and lowering CO2 emissions, these rail projects are poised to shape a more sustainable and connected India.
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