The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (July 15, 2025) approved two projects of Ministry of Railways with an approximate total cost of ₹3,907 crore. These projects include doubling of Paradeep – Haridaspur railway line and laying of fourth line on Rajkharsawan – Dangoaposi route.

The two projects covering four districts across the States of Odisha and Jharkhand will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 145 kms.

Tracks towards development

The proposed multi-tracking project will enhance connectivity to approximately 1,526 villages having a population of about 14 lakhs, while, the proposed capacity enhancement will improve rail connectivity to several prominent tourist destinations across the country, including Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, Shree Baladevjew Temple, Meghahatuburu Hills and more. 

The increased line capacity will significantly enhance mobility, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability, an official statement by Indian Railways said. 

These multi-tracking proposals are poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion. The projects will lead to comprehensive development in the area which will enhance their employment opportunities, the statement added. 

The projects are planned on PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan with focus on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. These projects will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services.

The proposed projects are essential routes for transportation of commodities such as coal, iron ore, dolomite, limestone, gypsum, etc. The capacity augmentation works will result in additional freight traffic of magnitude 44 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum), the statement said.