Cabinet nod for Rs 9,072 crore railway multitracking plan to add 307 km network capacity
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
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The Union Cabinet has approved three railway multitracking projects worth Rs 9,072 crore to expand network capacity across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. These projects aim to ease congestion on key freight and passenger routes by adding approximately 307 km to the existing Indian Railways network. The initiatives include doubling the Gondia–Jabalpur line, as well as the construction of third and fourth lines for Punarakh–Kiul and Gamharia–Chandil routes. Slated for completion by 2030-31, these projects are part of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on integrated infrastructure planning and multimodal logistics connectivity.
The expansion will cover eight districts and improve connectivity for over 5,407 villages, benefiting nearly 98 lakh people. By enhancing line capacity and operational efficiency, the projects are expected to reduce congestion, streamline rail operations, and support regional economic development. Additionally, the upgraded corridors will provide better access to tourist destinations such as Kachnar Shiv Temple, Kanha and Pench national parks, and Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, among others.
The multitracking initiative also aims to boost freight movement by approximately 52 million
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026