Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs Greenlights Rs 1,332 Crore Project for Doubling Railway Line in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu
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Synopsis
On April 9, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, spearheaded by Prime Minister Modi, sanctioned the doubling of the 104 km Tirupati–Pakala–Katpadi railway line in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, involving an investment of Rs 1,332 crore to enhance connectivity and infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Investment: Rs 1,332 crore for railway expansion
- Length: Doubling of 104 km railway line
- Connectivity: Enhances access to 400 villages
- Employment: Generates 35 lakh human-days
- Freight Traffic: Additional 4 MTPA expected
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the expansion of the Tirupati–Pakala–Katpadi single railway line segment (104 km) located in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, with an overall investment of Rs 1,332 crore.
This multi-tracking initiative aims to improve operational efficiency and alleviate congestion, thereby facilitating essential infrastructure upgrades on the busiest railway sections across Indian Railways, as stated in an official announcement.
Spanning three districts in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, this undertaking will expand the existing railway network by approximately 113 km.
In addition to enhancing access to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, the project will also offer railway connectivity to notable sites such as the Sri Kalahasti Shiva Temple, the Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, and the Chandragiri Fort, which draw pilgrims and tourists nationwide.
This multi-tracking project is set to improve connectivity to around 400 villages and serve a population of approximately 14 lakh. Additionally, it is expected to create direct employment opportunities equivalent to about 35 lakh human-days during the construction phase.
This crucial route is vital for transporting goods such as coal, agricultural products, cement, and various minerals. The increased line capacity will enhance mobility, leading to improved efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways.
The capacity enhancement will facilitate an additional freight traffic of approximately 4 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). As a mode of transport that is both environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, this project will contribute to achieving climate targets while reducing logistics costs nationally. It is anticipated to decrease oil imports by around 4 crore litres, saving valuable foreign exchange and lowering CO2 emissions by up to 20 crore kg, comparable to planting one crore trees, as the statement noted.
This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a New India, aiming to empower local residents and foster comprehensive development that will enhance employment prospects in the region, according to the statement.
Furthermore, the project is part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning, ensuring seamless transportation for people, goods, and services.
