Cabinet Approves Multitracking Projects in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh to Boost Rail Infrastructure and Economic Growth
Delhi : In a major step towards enhancing railway infrastructure and boosting economic connectivity, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved two key multitracking projects under Indian Railways in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
The approved projects are:
1. Ratlam–Nagda Third and Fourth Line
2. Wardha–Balharshah Fourth Line
With a total estimated investment of ₹3,399 crore, these projects are targeted for completion by the financial year 2029–30. They are part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aimed at strengthening multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning.
Key Highlights:
Line Expansion: The projects will add approximately 176 kilometers to the existing Indian Railways network, enhancing capacity and enabling faster, seamless transport of both passengers and freight.
Enhanced Connectivity: The new lines will improve rail connectivity across four districts and approximately 784 villages, directly benefiting a population of around 19.74 lakh.
Freight Efficiency: Designed to cater to high-volume freight routes, the projects will support the transportation of commodities such as coal, cement, gypsum, clinker, fly ash, containers, agricultural products, and petroleum, with an expected capacity increase of 18.40 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
Environmental Impact: The rail-based transportation model will significantly reduce carbon emissions—saving 99 crore kg of CO₂, equivalent to planting 4 crore trees, and decreasing oil imports by 20 crore litres.
Employment Generation: During the construction phase, the projects are expected to generate approximately 74 lakh human-days of direct employment, offering a substantial boost to local job markets.
Strategic Significance: These routes are essential for decongesting busy corridors, optimizing supply chains, reducing logistics costs, and enhancing the reliability and punctuality of rail services.
These multitracking projects represent a major leap forward in Indian Railways’ efforts to modernize its infrastructure and improve operational efficiency. By increasing mobility and supporting large-scale logistics, the projects align with the government’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and sustainable development.
They will not only streamline operations and foster economic growth but also empower the local population by opening up new avenues for employment and self-reliance.
