The Indian Railways is expanding its network with several new projects across Bihar, Jharkhand, and other states. Recent approvals focus on improving connectivity in Nawada and Ranchi, along with major infrastructure upgrades in West Bengal and the South. These projects aim to reduce congestion at major stations and make travel easier for passengers.
What are the new rail developments in Nawada and Ranchi?
In Nawada, Bihar, the government approved the survey for a new rail line approximately 130 km long from Nawada to Giridih via Satgawan. This will improve links to Banka and Pawapuri. In Ranchi, the Piska railway station will get three additional lines, making it the third-largest station in the Ranchi division after Ranchi and Hatia. Additionally, the 17 km line from Piska to Lodhma is expected to be completed by 2027.
Which other major infrastructure projects got approval?
The Ministry of Railways approved three key projects worth 2,193 crore rupees, including the Kiul-Jhajha third line and the Arakkonam-Chengalpattu doubling. In West Bengal, projects include the doubling of the New Jalpaiguri-Siliguri line and a new express service between Kolkata and Jaipur. Furthermore, the Cabinet approved multi-tracking projects worth 23,437 crore rupees covering 19 districts across states like Rajasthan, UP, and Karnataka.
| Region/Route | Project Detail | Estimated Cost/Length |
|---|---|---|
| Nawada-Giridih | New Line Survey | ~130 km |
| Piska Station | 3 New Lines | Increased Holding Capacity |
| Kiul-Jhajha | Third Line | 962 Crore / 54 km |
| Arakkonam-Chengalpattu | Doubling | 993 Crore / 68 km |
| Gaya-Daltonganj | New Line | 44.26 Crore / 136.88 km |
| Multi-tracking | 3 Major Projects | 23,437 Crore / 901 km |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the target for the Piska to Lodhma rail line?
The construction of the approximately 17 km long new railway line from Piska to Lodhma is currently underway and is targeted for completion by 2027.
Which states will benefit from the 23,437 crore multi-tracking project?
This project will cover 19 districts across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana by 2030-31.