On Tuesday, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved two multi-tracking projects proposed by the Ministry of Railways. These projects have a combined estimated cost of ₹3,907 crore and are targeted for completion by 2030-31.
The approved projects include the doubling of the Paradeep-Haridaspur railway line and the construction of a fourth line on the Rajkharsawan-Dangoaposi railway section.
According to the government, these projects will expand the Indian Railways network by approximately 145 kilometres across four districts in Odisha and Jharkhand. This expansion will enhance line capacity, ensure smoother train operations, and improve the transportation of both freight and passengers.
These projects have been formulated under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to strengthen multi-modal connectivity and logistics. The government states that this will facilitate faster and easier movement of people, goods, and services.
The projects will provide improved rail connectivity to around 14 lakh people across approximately 1,526 villages. Additionally, access to major tourist destinations such as the Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, Shri Baldevji Temple, and Meghahatuburu Hills will be enhanced.
According to the government, these railway routes are crucial for transporting key minerals such as coal, iron ore, dolomite, limestone, and gypsum. Upon completion, the railway’s freight-carrying capacity is projected to increase by an additional 44 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
The government noted that rail transport is an eco-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transport. These projects are expected to save approximately 6 crore litres of fuel annually and reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by 29 crore kilograms—an environmental benefit equivalent to planting one crore trees.
