These initiatives covering Maharashtra, Odisha and Chhattisgarh, targets to increase the existing railway network by about 1,247 km.
In projects, the cabinet has approved investment of Rs 8,741 crore for the construction of a new 615 km railway line in Chhattisgarh, expecting a savings of Rs 2,520 crore in logistic cost compared to road transport on this route. Kharsia – Naya Raipur – Paralakasa line will provide direct access to areas like Baloda Bazar for the establishment of new industrial units including cement plants in the region.
Additionally, an allocation of Rs 4,819 crore has been approved for the line doubling project on Gondia-Balhar Shah Marg in Maharashtra. In Odisha, 277 km project Rs. 3,917 crore will add third and fourth lines between Sambalpur and Jarapada.
The fourth project that has been approved is Jharsuguda – Sason 3rd and 4th row in Odisha.
In addition, projects will generate about 379 lakh human-day of direct employment during construction. With the progress of these infrastructure, 19 new stations will be constructed, which will improve connectivity from about 3,350 villages and benefit the population of about 47.25 lakhs. Capacity hike will provide the facility of freight traffic in addition to 88.77 million tonnes per year (MTPA), contributing to low logistics costs, reduced oil imports (95 million liters), and CO2 emissions (up to 477 million kg), equivalent to planting trees of 19 crore.
