Cabinet approves multi-tracking project in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The Union Cabinet has approved a multi-tracking project on the Ballari-Guntakal rail section in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, adding about 46 km to the Indian Railways network. The project, costing ₹1,264 crore, is targeted for completion by 2028-29.
Background
The Ballari-Guntakal section is a key freight corridor for iron ore, dolomite, limestone, iron & steel, coal, fertilizers, and grains. The project is part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan to enhance multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency.
Key facts
Project cost: ₹1,264 crore, completion target: 2028-29.
Adds approximately 46 km to the existing railway network.
Covers three districts in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Will benefit about 7 lakh people and improve rail connectivity to 99 villages.
Enhances connectivity to tourist destinations like Ballari Fort and Sri Kumaraswamy Temple.
Expected to generate additional freight capacity of about 16.22 million tonnes per year.
Will save about 1.32 crore litres of oil and reduce CO2 emissions by 6.67 crore kg (equivalent to 0.27 crore tree plantations).
Approved under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
Prelims pointers
- CCEA: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
- PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan
- Ballari-Guntakal rail section
- Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
- Multi-tracking (third and fourth lines)
- Cost: ₹1,264 crore
- Completion: 2028-29
- Additional freight capacity: 16.22 million tonnes per year
- CO2 reduction: 6.67 crore kg
- Oil saving: 1.32 crore litres
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of PM Gati Shakti in infrastructure development and logistics efficiency.
- Analyze the economic and environmental benefits of railway multi-tracking projects.
- Examine the impact of enhanced rail connectivity on regional development and tourism.