The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved three major railway projects, amounting to an investment of Rs 79.27 billion. The approved initiatives include the construction of the Jalgaon-Manmad fourth line (160 km), the Bhusawal-Khandwa third and fourth lines (131 km), and the Prayagraj (Iradatganj)-Manikpur third line (84 km). These multi-tracking projects are designed to streamline rail operations and reduce congestion on critical routes connecting Mumbai and Prayagraj. The infrastructural upgrades aim to enhance network efficiency and contribute to smoother transportation across the region. Aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a “New India,” these projects are part of a broader focus on regional development. The expansion will drive local economic growth, create job opportunities, and promote self-employment. The government emphasised that the initiatives would empower communities and improve connectivity, fostering self-reliance. Key details: The projects fall under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which supports integrated and multi-modal connectivity across India. Spanning seven districts in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, these developments will extend the Indian Railways network by approximately 639 kilometers. In addition to bolstering connectivity between major cities, the new lines will enhance access to aspirational districts Khandwa and Chitrakoot, impacting around 1,319 villages and benefiting approximately 3.8 million residents. The improvements will strengthen travel along the Mumbai-Prayagraj-Varanasi corridor, supporting religious tourism to sites like Trimbakeshwar and Omkareshwar in Maharashtra, Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, Gaya, and Shirdi. The enhanced network will also promote visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Khajuraho and the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, along with historical landmarks such as Devgiri Fort, Asirgarh Fort, Rewa Fort, and Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, the increased use of rail for passenger and freight transport is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 2.71 billion kg, equating to planting 110 million trees. This shift is expected to lower logistics costs while contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation system in India. (Financial Express)