Significant Railway Development for Chhattisgarh: Minister Tokhan Sahu Appreciates PM Modi for 615 km Line

Synopsis
Union Minister Tokhan Sahu expressed his gratitude to PM Modi and Railway Minister Vaishnaw for the approval of a significant railway project in Chhattisgarh, which includes a new 615 km railway line aimed at improving connectivity and reducing logistical costs.
Key Takeaways
- New railway line approved for Chhattisgarh.
- Investment of Rs 8,741 crore for improved connectivity.
- Project expected to reduce logistical costs by Rs 2,520 crore.
- Enhancement of regional transportation facilities.
- State and central governments committed to development.
New Delhi, April 7 (NationPress) Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu on Monday expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Centre sanctioned a substantial railway infrastructure initiative for Chhattisgarh.
The Union Cabinet, led by PM Modi, approved four railway multitracking projects on Friday, with a combined investment of Rs 18,658 crore. Among these is a new 615 km railway line in Chhattisgarh, which will require an investment of Rs 8,741 crore, designed to enhance connectivity and lower logistical expenses in the area.
Earlier in the day, alongside Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, MoS Tokhan Sahu unveiled significant improvements to railway connectivity.
He took to X and shared, "With Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, we have announced a significant enhancement to clean transport infrastructure in Chhattisgarh today during a joint press conference at Rail Bhawan."
"This represents a major gift to the residents of Chhattisgarh. The new railway line from Khairagarh to Parmalkasa, traversing through Bilaspur and Raipur bypass, will provide a direct link between the state and Maharashtra. On behalf of 3 crore citizens, I extend heartfelt gratitude to PM Modi and Railway Minister Vaishnaw," MoS Tokhan Sahu stated to IANS.
The Kharsia–Naya Raipur–Parmalkasa line is projected to reduce logistical expenses by Rs 2,520 crore compared to road transport and will improve access to Baloda Bazar, thereby enabling the establishment of new industries, including cement manufacturing facilities.
"Numerous new railway lines are being inaugurated in Chhattisgarh, and various other developmental projects in the connectivity sector have also received approval, with ongoing work," he added.
"The expansion of railway connectivity will greatly enhance transportation facilities in the region. Currently, only 30 percent of connectivity is available, but this is expected to rise to 60–70 percent in the near future. This will create opportunities for employment, industrial advancement, and regional progress," the MoS remarked.
He also mentioned that both the central and state governments are dedicated to the development of the state.
"This is PM Modi's assurance -- every promise will soon be realized," the MoS affirmed.
Concerning internal security in the state, MoS Tokhan Sahu remarked, "The Maoist threat in Chhattisgarh is nearing its conclusion. Our courageous security forces have achieved significant victories, and the struggle continues. Soon, Chhattisgarh, including Bastar, will be free from Maoist activity and will witness remarkable development."