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 multi-tracking railway projects in Odisha and Jharkhand with an estimated investment of Rs. 3,907 crore. These projects aim to expand the rail network by 145 Kms to enhance logistics efficiency and regional connectivity, with a scheduled completion date of 2030-31. The initiative is part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on seamless movement for people, goods, and services. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Project Details and Infrastructure** * Approval of two specific projects: Doubling of the Paradeep – Haridaspur line and a 4th line for the Rajkharsawan – Dangoaposi route. * Expansion of the Indian Railways network by approximately 145 Kms across four districts in Odisha and Jharkhand. * Development follows the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, utilizing integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. * **Economic and Freight Objectives** * Capacity augmentation to handle additional freight traffic of 44 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum). * Support for the essential transportation of commodities, including coal, iron ore, dolomite, limestone, and gypsum. * Reduction in logistics costs and improvement in operational efficiency and service reliability. * **Socio-Economic and Tourism Impact** * Enhanced connectivity for approximately 1,526 villages and a population of roughly 14 lakhs. * Improved access to major tourist sites, such as the Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, Shree Baladevjew Temple, and Meghahatuburu Hills. * Promotion of regional self-reliance ("Atmanirbhar") through increased employment and self-employment opportunities. * **Environmental Sustainability** * Alignment with climate goals by reducing oil imports by 6 crore litres. * Lowering of CO2 emissions by 29 crore kg, which is equivalent to the environmental impact of planting one crore trees. **Impact Analysis** **Indian Railways** **Impact:** Significant enhancement in line capacity, reduction in congestion, and improved service reliability. **Action Required:** Oversee the execution of multi-tracking works to meet the 2030-31 completion deadline. **Local Population and Residents** **Impact:** Improved mobility for 14 lakh people and better access to employment and tourism hubs. **Action Required:** Transition toward utilizing enhanced rail services for regional travel and commercial activities. **Industrial and Logistics Stakeholders** **Impact:** Streamlined transportation for heavy commodities (coal, iron ore, etc.) and reduced overall logistics expenses. **Action Required:** Align supply chain and transportation schedules with the augmented 44 MTPA freight capacity. **Government and Planning Bodies** **Impact:** Advancement of the "Vision of a New India" and fulfillment of PM-Gati Shakti objectives for multi-modal connectivity. **Action Required:** Ensure integrated planning and continued stakeholder consultation throughout the project lifecycle.

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