Cabinet approves two multitracking projects covering Four Districts across Odisha and Jharkhand, increasing the existing network of Indian Railways by about 145 Kms

**Executive Summary** The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved two railway multi-tracking projects in Odisha and Jharkhand at an estimated cost of ₹3,907 crore. These projects, covering 145 km, aim to enhance logistics efficiency and regional mobility under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan. The infrastructure works are scheduled for completion by the 2030-31 fiscal year. **Key Points / Main Content** **Approved Projects and Scope** * **Paradeep – Haridaspur:** Doubling of the existing line. * **Rajkharsawan – Dangoaposi:** Construction of a 4th line. * **Infrastructure Scale:** The projects cover four districts across Odisha and Jharkhand, adding approximately 145 km to the Indian Railways network. **Strategic and Operational Objectives** * **Efficiency:** Aims to significantly enhance mobility, operational efficiency, and service reliability. * **Congestion Relief:** Designed to streamline operations and alleviate existing rail congestion. * **Planning Framework:** Developed under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan to ensure integrated planning and multi-modal connectivity. **Socio-Economic Benefits** * **Village Connectivity:** Provides enhanced connectivity to approximately 1,526 villages, affecting a population of 14 lakhs. * **Employment:** Promotes "Atmanirbhar" regional development by enhancing employment and self-employment opportunities. * **Tourism Access:** Improves rail links to prominent sites including Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, Shree Baladevjew Temple, and Meghahatuburu Hills. **Freight and Environmental Impact** * **Commodity Transport:** Facilitates the movement of essential goods such as coal, iron ore, dolomite, limestone, and gypsum. * **Freight Volume:** Expected to result in additional freight traffic of 44 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). * **Climate Goals:** Projected to reduce oil imports by 6 crore litres and lower CO2 emissions by 29 crore kg, equivalent to planting 1 crore trees. **Impact Analysis** **Local Communities (Odisha and Jharkhand)** **Impact** Residents in 1,526 villages will gain improved access to seamless transportation for people and services, alongside increased employment opportunities. **Action Required** Utilize enhanced connectivity for economic activities and regional self-employment opportunities. **Industrial and Mining Sectors** **Impact** Industries dealing in coal, iron ore, and minerals will benefit from increased line capacity and a reduction in logistics costs. **Action Required** Align supply chain and freight schedules to leverage the projected 44 MTPA additional capacity. **Indian Railways / Ministry of Railways** **Impact** The organization will see improved service reliability and reduced operational bottlenecks in critical freight routes. **Action Required** Execute the doubling and 4th-line construction to meet the 2030-31 completion deadline. **Tourism Sector** **Impact** Increased visitor accessibility to cultural and natural sites such as the Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex and Meghahatuburu Hills. **Action Required** Develop local tourism infrastructure to accommodate the anticipated increase in rail-based visitors.

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