Cabinet Approves ₹1,264 Crore Indian Railways Multitracking Project
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the 3rd and 4th Line of Ballari–Guntakal section spanning Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh with a total estimated cost of Rs 1,264 crore. The project is scheduled for completion by 2028-29 and will add approximately 46 kilometers to the existing Indian Railways network, covering three districts across both states.
This infrastructure project is strategically aligned with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistic efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. The development will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods, and services, benefiting approximately 99 villages with a combined population of about seven lakh people.
The capacity enhancement will significantly improve rail connectivity to prominent tourist destinations including Ballari Fort and Sri Kumara Swamy Temple. More importantly, the route serves as essential infrastructure for transportation of critical commodities including iron ore, dolomite, limestone, iron and steel, coal, fertilizers, and food grains. The capacity augmentation works are projected to generate additional freight traffic of 16.22 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA).
Environmental benefits form a significant component of the project justification, with Indian Railways' environment-friendly and energy-efficient mode of transportation expected to contribute to climate goals while minimizing national logistics costs. Specific environmental benefits include reduction of oil imports by 1.32 crore litres and lowering CO2 emissions by 6.67 crore kg, which is equivalent to the plantation of 0.27 crore trees.
The increased line capacity will enhance mobility substantially, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways by streamlining operations and alleviating congestion. The project supports the vision of comprehensive regional development that will enhance employment and self-employment opportunities for the local population.