₹6,405 Crore Railway Boost: Doubling Tracks for India's Future

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved two major railway doubling projects—Koderma–Barkakana in Jharkhand and Ballari–Chikjajur spanning Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Together covering 318 km, these projects involve a total investment of ₹6,405 crore and are aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, improving passenger and freight capacity, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that both projects are targeted for completion within three years. The 133 km Koderma–Barkakana section, approved at a cost of ₹3,063 crore, will serve as the shortest rail route between Patna and Ranchi. It will benefit around 15 lakh people across four districts in Jharkhand. The project includes the construction of 17 major bridges, 180 minor bridges, 42 road overbridges (ROBs), and 13 road underbridges (RUBs). Once operational, it is expected to accommodate an additional 30.4 million tonnes of cargo annually, reduce carbon emissions by 163 crore kg, and save 32 crore litres of diesel each year.

The 185 km Ballari–Chikjajur section, approved at ₹3,342 crore, will enhance connectivity between Mangalore Port and Secunderabad. It will significantly support the transportation of iron ore, steel, and other key commodities. This project comprises 19 stations, 29 major bridges, 230 minor bridges, 21 ROBs, and 85 RUBs.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.