Why Did MP CM Thank PM Modi for Multi-Tracking Railway Projects?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The railway projects involve an investment of Rs 24,634 crore.
- Completion is expected by 2030-31.
- 18 districts will benefit from improved connectivity.
- Enhancements will promote tourism and transport of goods.
- Environmental benefits include reduced emissions.
Bhopal, Oct 7 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday for the endorsement of significant multi-tracking railway initiatives, impacting the state of Madhya Pradesh.
The Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs, led by PM Modi, sanctioned projects totaling Rs 24,634 crore on Tuesday, which includes a 237 km fourth rail line connecting Itarsi-Bhopal-Bina in Madhya Pradesh.
Additionally, the approval covers a 259 km third and fourth line between Vadodara and Ratlam, linking Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, and a 314 km third and fourth line between Wardha and Bhusaval in Maharashtra, along with an 84 km fourth line connecting Gondia and Dongargarh, which links Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.
These essential projects aim for completion by 2030-31.
The Chief Minister noted that these undertakings will touch 18 districts across Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh, facilitating uninterrupted connectivity for citizens, goods, and services.
Yadav mentioned, "The endorsed multi-tracking projects will enhance connectivity for approximately 3,633 villages, encompassing a population of nearly 85 lakh 84 thousand, which includes two aspirational districts—Vidisha and Rajnandgaon."
In Madhya Pradesh, the project will boost rail connectivity to key tourist attractions such as Sanchi, Satpura Tiger Reserve, Bhimbetka rock shelters (renowned for prehistoric human remains and ancient rock art), Hajra Waterfall, and Navegaon National Park, thus promoting tourism from all over India.
This route will also facilitate the transportation of essential goods such as coal, cement, containers, fly ash, food grains, and steel, increasing track capacity to handle an additional 78 million tonnes of freight each year.
The eco-friendly and energy-efficient railway network will play a crucial role in India’s climate objectives, reducing operational costs, cutting down petroleum imports by 28 crore litres, and lowering carbon emissions by 1.39 kg—the equivalent of planting 6 crore trees.
In line with PM Modi's vision for a 'New India', these projects are anticipated to usher in holistic development for the region, nurture self-sufficiency, and generate new job and self-employment opportunities, Yadav concluded.