The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday (July 24, 2026) approved the third and fourth lines of the Ballari-Guntakal rail section across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The project is estimated to cost ₹1,264 crore. 

The multi-tracking project covering three districts across the two States will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 46 km and will be completed by 2028-29. The proposed multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to approximately 99 villages with a combined population of about seven lakh, a spokesperson for the Railway Ministry stated. 

The capacity enhancement project will improve rail connectivity to several prominent tourist destinations across the country, including Ballari Fort and Sri Kumara Swamy Temple.

The project is planned under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan with focus on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. The project is expected to provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services.

The proposed project is essential for transportation of commodities such as iron ore, dolomite, limestone, iron and steel, coal, fertilizers, and food grains. The capacity augmentation works will result in additional freight traffic of 16.22 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), the spokesperson added. 

The increased line capacity will significantly enhance mobility, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability for the Railways. The proposal is also poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion.