Cabinet Approves Two Multi-Tracking Projects in Odisha and Jharkhand
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The Union Cabinet has approved two multi-tracking railway projects in Odisha and Jharkhand, adding about 145 km to the network at a cost of ~₹3,907 crore. These projects aim to enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and boost freight capacity, aligning with the PM Gati Shakti plan.
Background
The projects are part of Indian Railways' capacity augmentation efforts, particularly in mineral-rich regions of Odisha and Jharkhand. They fall under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for integrated planning and multi-modal connectivity.
Key facts
Two multi-tracking projects approved: Paradip–Haridaspur doubling and Rajkharswan–Dangoaposi fourth line.
Total cost: ~₹3,907 crore; completion by 2030-31.
Adds ~145 km to Indian Railways network.
Covers 4 districts in Odisha and Jharkhand.
Improves connectivity for ~1,526 villages with ~14 lakh population.
Enhances rail links to tourist sites: Lalitgiri Buddhist complex, Shri Baladevjew Temple, Meghahatuburu hills.
Additional freight capacity: 44 million tonnes per annum.
Reduces oil imports by 6 crore litres and CO2 emissions by 29 crore kg (equivalent to 1 crore tree plantation).
Expected to boost employment and self-employment opportunities.
Prelims pointers
- CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs) approved the projects.
- PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
- Paradip–Haridaspur doubling and Rajkharswan–Dangoaposi fourth line.
- Completion target: 2030-31.
- Total cost: ~₹3,907 crore.
- Additional freight capacity: 44 million tonnes per annum.
- Oil import reduction: 6 crore litres.
- CO2 emission reduction: 29 crore kg.
Mains angles
- GS3 Infrastructure: Role of railway capacity augmentation in economic development and logistics efficiency.
- GS3 Environment: Multi-tracking as a sustainable transport mode reducing carbon footprint.
- GS2 Government Policies: Alignment with PM Gati Shakti and integrated planning.