The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has officially approved four major multitracking projects aimed at transforming the East Coast railway network. With an estimated investment of Rs 9,450 crore, this initiative covers 410 kilometers of track expansion across West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. These projects are designed to reduce congestion, streamline rail traffic, and boost both passenger and freight efficiency along this vital corridor.
Key highlights of the approved rail infrastructure projects include:
- 173-km Kharagpur-Bhadrak (Ranital) 4th line
- 75-km Bhadrak-Haridaspur 4th line
- 90-km Gummidipundi-Gudur 3rd and 4th lines
- 72-km Cuttack-Paradeep (Badabandha) 3rd and 4th lines
Boosting Freight and Connectivity
These expansion efforts are a crucial part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which seeks to create long-term route capacity across the country. According to Eastern Railway General Manager Gitika Pandey, these works are part of a broader Rs 12,000 crore investment strategy. The projects are expected to be completed by the 2030-31 fiscal year.
Once operational, the expanded network will add 76 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight capacity, facilitating the smoother transport of essential commodities such as coal, iron ore, cement, and food grains. Beyond freight, the initiative is set to benefit approximately 6 million people residing across 6,448 villages, significantly improving regional connectivity and passenger movement.
Strategic Importance for the Region
Regional leaders have welcomed the approval, highlighting the transformative potential of these lines. The Kharagpur–Bhadrak section, in particular, is expected to be a game-changer for regional logistics. By adding these additional tracks, the Indian Railways aims to eliminate bottlenecks on one of its most heavily utilized routes, ensuring that the East Coast remains a robust backbone for India’s growing economy. As the work progresses, passengers can expect more reliable schedules and improved service frequency across these key states.