The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned three significant railway projects with a combined investment of Rs 79.27 billion. These projects include the construction of the Jalgaon-Manmad fourth line (160 km), Bhusawal-Khandwa third and fourth lines (131 km), and the Prayagraj (Iradatganj)-Manikpur third line (84 km).
Aimed at decongesting critical routes between Mumbai and Prayagraj, these multi-tracking projects will streamline operations, enhance network efficiency, and improve regional connectivity. Part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the initiatives align with the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘New India,’ fostering regional development, job creation, and self-employment opportunities.
Spanning seven districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, the projects will add approximately 639 km to the Indian Railways network. They will connect aspirational districts like Khandwa and Chitrakoot, impact 1,319 villages, and benefit around 3.8 million people.
Additionally, the new lines will strengthen travel along the Mumbai-Prayagraj-Varanasi corridor, boosting religious tourism to destinations such as Trimbakeshwar, Omkareshwar, Kashi Vishwanath, and Shirdi. The network will also enhance access to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Khajuraho and the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, as well as historical landmarks such as Devgiri Fort and Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Increased rail usage for passenger and freight transport is projected to cut CO2 emissions by 2.71 billion kg, equivalent to planting 110 million trees. These developments aim to lower logistics costs, promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation system in India.
