Cabinet approves three multitracking projects covering 8 Districts across the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand, increasing the existing network of Indian Railways by about 307 Kms

**Executive Summary** The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved three railway multitracking projects across eight districts in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. These projects aim to increase the Indian Railways network by approximately 307 kilometers and are estimated to cost Rs 9,072 crore. The expected completion date is 2030-31. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Project Overview:** * Approval of three railway projects by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. * Total project cost: Rs 9,072 crore (approx.). * Target completion date: 2030-31. * **Project Details:** * Gondia – Jabalpur Doubling * Punarakh - Kiul 3rd and 4th line * Gamharia - Chandil 3rd and 4th line * **Geographic Impact:** * Projects span across 8 districts in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. * Will enhance connectivity to approx. 5,407 villages with a population of about 98 lakhs. * **Network Expansion:** * Increases existing Indian Railways network by about 307 Kms. * **Operational Benefits:** * Increased line capacity for improved operational efficiency and service reliability. * Streamlines operations and reduces congestion. * **Strategic Alignment:** * Aligned with PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan. * Enhances multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency. * Provides seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services. * **Economic and Environmental Benefits:** * Supports comprehensive development and employment opportunities. * Reduces oil import (6 Crore Litres). * Lowers CO2 emissions (30 Crore Kg), equivalent to planting One Crore trees. * Increases freight traffic by 52 MTPA. **Impact Analysis** **Indian Railways** * **Impact:** Enhanced operational efficiency, increased network capacity, ability to streamline operations and alleviate congestion. * **Action Required:** Execute and manage the approved railway multitracking projects. **Residents of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand** * **Impact:** Improved connectivity and mobility, increased employment/self-employment opportunities. * **Action Required:** Be informed of the development in their area. **Ministry of Railways** * **Impact:** Has to complete the project within the timeline and estimated budget. * **Action Required:** Ensure effective execution of the approved projects and their alignment with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan. **Freight Carriers** * **Impact:** Greater accessibility to transport routes across the country * **Action Required:** Be aware of potential improvements to logistical issues they may have previously experienced. **Visitors of the following areas**: Kachnar Shiv Temple (Jabalpur), Kanha National Park (Balaghat), Gangulpara Dam and Waterfall, Pench National Park, Dhuandhar waterfall, Bargi Dam, Gomji-Somji temple, Chandil Dam, Dalma Hill Top, Hesakocha Waterfall, Raijama Ghati, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. * **Impact:** Easier to access prominent tourist locations throughout India * **Action Required:** Plan visits to popular locations once the project is completed.

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