The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday approved a Rs 1,264 crore railway expansion project to construct a third and fourth line on the Ballari-Guntakal section spanning Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Multi-Tracking Project To Expand Indian Railways Network By 46 Km
The multi-tracking project, spanning across three districts in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, will add approximately 46 kilometres to the existing network of Indian Railways. The project is slated for completion by 2028-29.
Multi-Tracking Project To Boost Goods Transport, Improve Connectivity To 99 Villages
– The proposed multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to approximately 99 villages, benefiting a population of nearly seven lakh residents.
– The line will improve access to major tourist destinations, including the Ballari Fort and the Sri Kumara Swamy Temple.
– The line is an essential route for transportation of essential goods, such as iron ore, steel, coal, limestone, dolomite, fertilisers, and food grains.
– The multi-tracking project will allow the transportation of an additional 16.22 MTPA (million tonnes per annum).
“The project is planned on the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan with a focus on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. This project will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services,” the government statement read.
Impact On Environment
As an energy-efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport, expanding this railway corridor aligns with India’s climate goals while lowering logistics costs.
According to the report, the project is projected to reduce oil imports by 13.2 million litres and lower carbon dioxide emissions by 66.7 million kilograms, which is equivalent to planting 2.7 million trees.
“The increased line capacity will significantly enhance mobility, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. This multi-tracking proposal is poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion,” the government said.