Cabinet Approves Multi-Tracking Railway Projects in MP, Maharashtra, Gujarat & Chhattisgarh
The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved four major multi-tracking railway projects across 18 districts in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for the approval, calling it a significant step for regional development and connectivity. These projects, part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aim to improve multi-modal logistics and enhance connectivity through integrated planning and stakeholder consultation.
The multi-tracking of existing rail lines will increase railway line capacity, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service reliability of Indian Railways. Passengers and freight movement will benefit from smoother and more efficient train operations.
Approved Projects
- Itarsi–Bhopal–Bina (Madhya Pradesh): 237 km - Fourth Line
- Vadodara–Ratlam (Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh): 259 km - Third & Fourth Lines
- Wardha–Bhusaval (Maharashtra): 314 km - Third & Fourth Lines
- Gondia–Dongargarh (Maharashtra & Chhattisgarh): 84 km - Fourth Line
The total estimated cost of these projects is ₹24,634 crore, and they are expected to be completed by the financial year 2030-31. The projects will benefit around 3,633 villages with a combined population of over 85.84 lakh people, including two aspirational districts—Vidisha (MP) and Rajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh).
Regional and Environmental Impact
The new tracks will improve connectivity to several important locations in Madhya Pradesh, including Sanchi, Satpura Tiger Reserve, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Hazara Falls, and Navegaon National Park—boosting tourism and economic growth.
These routes are critical for transporting coal, cement, fly ash, food grains, steel, and containers. With the added tracks, Indian Railways will be able to transport an additional 78 million tonnes of freight annually.
The projects align with India’s climate goals by promoting environmentally friendly and energy-efficient transportation. It is estimated to reduce oil imports by 280 million liters and lower carbon emissions by 1.39 billion kilograms—equivalent to planting 60 million trees.