New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday approved two key railway infrastructure projects in West Bengal and Jharkhand, involving the construction of additional tracks to boost capacity and improve train operations.
The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The projects will be implemented by the Ministry of Railways at an estimated cost of Rs 4,474 crore.
Under the plan, fourth railway lines will be developed along the Sainthia–Pakur and Santragachi–Kharagpur sections. Once completed, the expansion will add around 192 km to the existing network of Indian Railways and improve connectivity in five districts across the two states.
The government expects the projects to be completed by 2030–31. Nearly 5,652 villages with an estimated population of about 1.47 crore people are likely to benefit from the improved connectivity.
Officials said the upgraded routes will also make it easier for travellers to reach several prominent destinations such as Bolpur Shantiniketan, Tarapith Temple, Nandikeshwari Temple and Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary.
The new railway lines are expected to significantly increase line capacity, reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of train services.
Government officials said the routes are important for the transport of commodities such as coal, iron and steel, cement, stone, foodgrains, petroleum products and containers, making them crucial for freight movement.
The projects are being developed under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on integrated infrastructure planning and improved multi-modal connectivity.
Officials added that strengthening rail infrastructure will help reduce logistics costs, improve supply chains and contribute to economic development in the region while also supporting environmentally sustainable transportation.
With inputs from IANS