Centre approves railway multi-tracking projects worth 4,474 cr in Bengal, Jharkhand

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has greenlit two major multi-tracking railway projects spanning West Bengal and Jharkhand. With a total estimated investment of ₹4,474 crore, these projects aim to add approximately 192 km to the existing Indian Railways network by the year 2030-31. The primary focus includes the construction of a 4th line between Sainthia – Pakur and Santragachi – Kharagpur, addressing long-standing congestion issues.

By covering five districts across the two states, the expansion will directly benefit nearly 5,652 villages with a combined population of approximately 147 lakhs. This infrastructure boost is expected to streamline the movement of essential commodities like coal, iron, steel, and foodgrains, adding 31 MTPA in freight capacity.

As per the central government, the improved rail capacity will significantly boost tourism by providing better access to cultural and religious landmarks such as Bolpur-Shantiniketan, Tarapith, and the Nandikeshwari Temple. From an environmental perspective, the shift toward rail is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 28 crore kg—the equivalent of planting one crore trees—while saving 6 crore litres of oil imports, aligning with India's broader climate goals.