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Cabinet approves three multitracking projects across 19 districts; Rail network expanded by about 901 km
On May 5, 2026, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved three Ministry of Railways multitracking projects totaling Rs. 23,437 crore, expanding the Indian Railways network by about 901 km across 19 districts in six states. The plan aims to boost mobility, efficiency, and freight capacity, with broader benefits for tourism and regional development.
Why It Matters
The projects align with the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan and PM Modi's development vision, improving multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency. They are expected to add 60 MTPA of freight capacity, enhance reliability, and reduce oil imports and CO2 emissions.
Timeline
2 Events
Cabinet approves three multitracking projects of Railway Ministry
May 5, 2026
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved three multitracking projects of the Railway Ministry with a total cost of ₹23,437 crore. The projects will be implemented in six states—Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana—and will increase the railway network by about 901 km. The lines are Nagda–Mathura 3rd and 4th Line, Guntakal–Wadi 3rd and 4th Line, and Burhwal–Sitapur 3rd and 4th Line, with completion targeted by 2030-31.
Cabinet approves three multitracking projects across 19 districts; Rail network expanded by about 901 km
May 5, 2026
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved three Ministry of Railways projects with a total cost of Rs. 23,437 crore. The projects are Nagda–Mathura (3rd and 4th Line), Guntakal–Wadi (3rd and 4th Line), and Burhwal–Sitapur (3rd and 4th Line). Collectively they cover 19 districts across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and will increase the existing railway network by about 901 kilometres. The multi-tracking is expected to boost mobility, improve operational efficiency and service reliability, and facilitate movement of people and goods. The expansion will also enhance connectivity to about 4,161 villages with a population of around 83 lakhs, and support tourism at several destinations such as Mahakaleshwar, Ranthambore, Kuno National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Mathura and Vrindavan. The capacity augmentation could enable an additional freight traffic of 60 MTPA and contribute to reducing oil imports by about 37 crore litres and CO2 emissions by approximately 185 crore kg, equivalent to planting seven crore trees.