Cabinet approves five multitracking projects covering 17 Districts across the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana, increasing the existing network of Indian Railways by about 540 Kms

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved five railway multitracking projects spanning 17 districts across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, with an estimated cost of Rs. 10,021 crore. Planned for completion by 2029-30, these projects will increase the Indian Railways network by approximately 540 kms. Designed under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the initiatives aim to enhance multi-modal connectivity, improve operational efficiency and line capacity, alleviate congestion, and facilitate freight traffic augmentation of 47 Million Tonnes Per Annum. The government states these projects will improve connectivity for approximately 2,121 villages, enhance access to tourist destinations, support climate goals by reducing oil imports and CO2 emissions, and expand employment and self-employment opportunities.