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 multi-tracking projects spanning 17 districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. With an estimated cost of Rs. 10,021 crore, these projects will add about 540 kms to the Indian Railways network. They aim to reduce congestion, improve operational efficiency, and enhance multi-modal connectivity under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
Why It Matters
This is important for railway and central government exam current affairs, particularly questions related to infrastructure approvals, railway network expansions, and PM-Gati Shakti projects.
In Simple Words
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved five new railway multi-tracking projects involving an approximate cost of Rs. 10,021 crore. These projects cover 17 districts across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, expanding the existing rail network by about 540 kilometres.
The initiative aims to reduce congestion, increase operational efficiency, and provide seamless connectivity for passengers and freight. Planned under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the projects will boost local development, improve tourist access, and reduce both oil imports and carbon emissions.
Key Points
- Approved by: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
- Total cost: Rs. 10,021 crore (approx.)
- States covered: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana
- Total districts covered: 17 districts
- Network expansion: About 540 kms
- Villages connected: Approx. 2,121 villages with a population of about 52 lakhs
- Additional freight traffic: 47 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum)
- Environmental impact: Reduce oil import by ~8 crore litres and lower CO2 emissions by ~42 crore kg
Exam Angle
A. Rs. 10,021 crore
Source: Press Information Bureau