Major Railway Infrastructure Projects in India: 2023 Overview

Overview of Approved Railway Projects

In a significant move for infrastructure development, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned two vital multitracking railway projects valued at ₹2,781 crore. These initiatives aim to enhance the Indian Railways network within Maharashtra and Gujarat, addressing both passenger and freight capacity needs.

The two approved projects will contribute to the expansion of the railway network by approximately 224 km, providing benefits to over 32 lakh individuals across 4 districts and 585 villages.

1. Devbhumi Dwarka (Okha) – Kanalus Doubling Project

• Length: 141 km
• State: Gujarat
• Key Impact:
  • Improves access to Dwarkadhish Temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
  • Strengthens connectivity in the Saurashtra region.
  • Supports tourism and fosters regional development.
  • Enhances logistics for the movement of bulk freight.

2. Badlapur – Karjat 3rd and 4th Line Project

• Length: 32 km
• State: Maharashtra
• Corridor: Mumbai suburban network
• Key Impact:
  • Alleviates congestion in one of India’s busiest railway corridors.
  • Prepares the suburban rail network of Mumbai for future passenger demand.
  • Improves connectivity to Southern India via Karjat.
  • Enhances the suburban commuter experience with increased service frequency and reliability.

Aligned with PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan

These railway projects are integral to the PM Gati Shakti initiative, which is focused on building a comprehensive multi-modal infrastructure ecosystem across India. The initiative emphasizes:

• Integrated planning
• Seamless connectivity
• Improved logistics efficiency
• Collaboration among stakeholders

The multitracking efforts are designed to alleviate transportation bottlenecks, decrease fuel consumption, and lower logistics costs within India’s supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the key benefits of the new railway projects?
Answer: The new railway projects enhance connectivity, support tourism, improve logistics for freight transport, and benefit millions of people across several districts.

Q2. How long is the Devbhumi Dwarka to Kanalus project?
Answer: The Devbhumi Dwarka (Okha) to Kanalus Doubling Project spans a length of 141 km in Gujarat.

Q3. What is the purpose of the PM Gati Shakti initiative?
Answer: The PM Gati Shakti initiative aims to develop a multi-modal infrastructure ecosystem in India, ensuring integrated planning and improved logistics efficiency.

Q4. How will these projects impact the Mumbai suburban network?
Answer: The Badlapur – Karjat project will ease congestion and enhance the commuter experience by providing more reliable and frequent services.

Q5. What is the total investment in the newly approved railway projects?
Answer: The Cabinet Committee approved a total investment of ₹2,781 crore for the two railway projects.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the total length of the railway projects approved in Gujarat and Maharashtra?
A) 141 km
B) 224 km
C) 32 km
D) 585 km
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which initiative is aligned with the newly approved railway projects?
A) Digital India
B) Make in India
C) PM Gati Shakti
D) Skill India
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: How many districts will benefit from these railway projects?
A) 2
B) 4
C) 6
D) 3
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the main focus of the PM Gati Shakti initiative?
A) Employment generation
B) Multi-modal infrastructure
C) Agricultural development
D) Urban housing
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is the value of the approved railway projects?
A) ₹1,500 crore
B) ₹2,781 crore
C) ₹3,200 crore
D) ₹4,000 crore
Correct Answer: B