Indian Railways has approved the 54-kilometre Kiul-Jhajha third line project at a cost of Rs 9.62 billion (bn). The Ministry of Railways stated that the project forms an important part of the High Traffic Density Network and will strengthen passenger and freight movement across Eastern and Northern India. The ministry characterised the route as critical for long-distance traffic and noted that the third line will ease bottlenecks. The investment targets capacity constraints on a heavily used section. The Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, said the project will significantly enhance capacity on the Howrah-Delhi corridor and improve punctuality and operational flexibility of train services. He noted that additional line infrastructure will facilitate the seamless movement of passenger and freight trains. Officials linked the project to supporting industrial growth and improving trade connectivity across the region. Authorities added that increased capacity is intended to benefit daily commuters and freight operators by reducing delays. Project planning and execution will focus on track laying, signalling upgrades and associated civil works to ensure integration with existing infrastructure. The third line is expected to reduce congestion at choke points and provide scheduled relief for both freight operations and long-distance passenger services. Coordination with zonal railways and contractors will be emphasised to minimise disruption to current services during construction. Timelines and funding disbursement details will be finalised by the ministry as part of routine implementation procedures. The project is one of several initiatives under the national efforts to modernise rail capacity on high-density corridors and to support economic activity through improved logistics. Authorities indicated that enhanced capacity will aid the timely movement of goods and reduce transit delays for key industrial zones served by the corridor. Monitoring arrangements will be put in place to track progress and address operational challenges. Further announcements on contractors and project milestones will be issued as work progresses.