Cabinet Clears Major Railway Expansion: ₹6,405 Crore for Jharkhand, Karnataka, AP.

India's Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently gave its approval for two significant railway projects totaling over ₹6,400 crore. These strategic investments aim to enhance rail connectivity, particularly in mineral-rich regions and key transport corridors across three states.

The first project approved is the Koderma – Barkakana Doubling (133 km) line. A crucial section of this route traverses coal-producing areas within Jharkhand, promising improved efficiency for freight movement. Beyond its industrial importance, this doubled line will also serve as the shortest and most efficient rail link connecting the state capitals of Patna (Bihar) and Ranchi (Jharkhand), significantly reducing travel time for passengers.

The second approved project is the Ballari – Chikjajur Doubling (185 km). This vital line will span across Ballari and Chitradurga districts in Karnataka, and extend into the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Upon completion, this doubled track is expected to substantially enhance rail connectivity to the strategically important Mangaluru Port, facilitating smoother and faster movement of goods to and from the port.

These projects underscore the government's continued focus on strengthening India's railway infrastructure to support economic growth, improve logistical efficiency, and enhance passenger convenience across the nation.