The Central Government approved two railway projects worth ₹6405 crore in 7 districts across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. These projects will improve travel facilities, reduce logistics costs, and contribute to environmental protection.
Central Cabinet Meeting: The Central Government approved two major railway multi-tracking projects connecting seven districts across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. The Kodarma-Barkakana and Ballari-Chikjajur rail sections will be doubled, enhancing passenger convenience, reducing logistics costs, and benefiting the environment. The total investment is ₹6,405 crore.
Railway Projects Approved in Cabinet Meeting
On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, the Union Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, green-lighted two significant railway projects. These projects, impacting seven districts across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, will further strengthen Indian Railways' capacity and efficiency.
Jharkhand: Kodarma-Barkakana Rail Section to be Doubled
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the doubling of the 133 km long railway line between Kodarma and Barkakana in Jharkhand. The estimated cost of this project is ₹3,063 crore. This will reduce travel time between Patna and Ranchi. The project will provide better rail connectivity to districts like Kodarma, Chatra, Hazaribagh, and Ramgarh, accelerating economic and social development in these areas.
Environmental Protection and Energy Savings
The Railway Minister also highlighted the project's positive environmental impact. Experts estimate that the carbon dioxide reduction from this multi-tracking project will be equivalent to planting seven crore trees. Furthermore, approximately 32 crore liters of diesel will be saved annually.
This project will directly benefit approximately 938 villages and a population of 1.5 million. This rail section will be capable of carrying approximately 30.4 million tons of additional freight annually, reducing the burden on road transport.
South India: Ballari-Chikjajur Rail Line Doubling Approved
The second major project is in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The Central Government approved the doubling of the 185 km long rail section from Ballari to Chikjajur. ₹3,342 crore will be spent on this work. This project will improve connectivity to Mangalore Port and significantly benefit industries. The Railway Minister stated that this will boost economic activities along the rail route and create new employment opportunities in the region.
Reduction in Transportation Costs
The Railway Minister emphasized that reducing logistics costs is a priority for the Modi government's third term. He cited a recent study by IIM Bangalore and IIM Kolkata showing that investments in the transport sector have reduced logistics costs by approximately 4%. These two projects will not only benefit passengers but also expedite and reduce the cost of trade and freight transportation, benefiting small traders, farmers, and industrialists.
