Government approves major railway multi tracking projects worth 10783 crore
The Indian railway network is set for a massive infrastructure boost following a recent high level approval by the central government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs which officially cleared three major multi tracking railway projects on Wednesday September 9 2026. These projects involve a total investment of ₹10783 crore and aim to expand the national rail network by 656 kilometers across five states with completion targeted for 2029-30. This initiative will directly benefit 4790 villages across 14 districts while adding significant freight and passenger capacity to busy routes.
The approved infrastructure expansion spans across the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. According to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, these developments form an integral part of a long-term 12-year comprehensive modernization effort for Indian Railways. The newly sanctioned tracks are strategically planned to ease congestion on heavy traffic routes and improve overall train operations for both freight and passenger services.
Details of the Approved Multi Tracking Projects
The modernization plan comprises three specific multi tracking developments designed to strengthen connectivity in resource rich and industrial corridors. The largest among them is the 367-kilometer Khargapur-Jharsuguda Bagdehi fourth line, approved at a cost of ₹6,528 crore, which serves as a vital section of the bustling Howrah-Mumbai high-density corridor. Furthermore, the administration has sanctioned a 201-kilometer fourth line between Katni and Pendra Road costing ₹2,975 crore, alongside an 87-kilometer third line between Bilaspur Uslapur and Pendra Road valued at ₹1,279 crore.
Economic Growth and Freight Capacity
By upgrading these critical routes, Indian Railways expects to facilitate the smooth transportation of essential commodities including coal, iron, steel, and cement. The expansion will add approximately 27 million tons of annual freight capacity, boosting industrial activities in the region. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai welcomed the announcement, noting that these lines will significantly drive regional industrial growth and enhance passenger convenience.
Employment and Environmental Benefits
In addition to infrastructural upgrades, the initiative is expected to generate 125 lakh man-days of employment during construction and operational phases, providing livelihood opportunities locally. Designed in alignment with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the project places strong emphasis on green transportation. Officials estimate that the expanded network will result in an annual reduction of 620 million kilograms of CO2 emissions and save around 120 million liters of oil, contributing heavily to India's long-term sustainability goals.