The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved five railway multi-tracking projects with a total estimated cost of ₹10,021 crore.
The projects will cover 540 km across 17 districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana, increasing line capacity and improving operational efficiency and service reliability.
Five projects to add 540 km
The approved projects include the 77-km third and fourth lines between Arakkonam and Renigunta, and the 47-km third and fourth lines between Whitefield and Bangarapet.
The other projects comprise doubling of the 147-km Hosur-Omalur section, doubling of the 159-km Salem-Karur-Dindigul section and 110-km multi-tracking between Secunderabad (Ghatkesar) and Kazipet.
Connectivity to 2,121 villages
The capacity enhancement projects are expected to ease congestion and streamline railway operations while improving connectivity for passengers, goods and services.
The projects will improve rail connectivity to around 2,121 villages with a combined population of about 52 lakh. They are also expected to create opportunities for employment and self-employment through improved regional connectivity.
Focus on PM Gati Shakti
The projects have been planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, with a focus on integrated planning, multi-modal connectivity and improved logistics efficiency.
The enhanced network will support seamless movement of people and freight while strengthening connections between major industrial, commercial and tourism centres.
Boost to tourism and freight
The projects will improve connectivity to several tourist and pilgrimage destinations, including Tirupati, Tiruttani, Kolar Gold Fields, Hogenakkal Falls, Kodaikanal Hills, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, Namakkal and Yadagirigutta.
The routes are also important for transporting coal, cement, iron and steel, containers, automobiles, foodgrains, petroleum products and fertilisers.
Freight capacity to rise
The capacity augmentation works are expected to generate additional freight traffic of about 47 million tonnes per annum.
The government said the projects are aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of a New India and are aimed at supporting comprehensive regional development, strengthening infrastructure and improving economic opportunities.