Cabinet Approves Railway Multitracking Projects In Bengal, Jharkhand To Strengthen Freight Capacity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Union Cabinet of India has approved two major railway multitracking projects aimed at strengthening transport infrastructure in eastern India.

The projects include the fourth railway line between Sainthia and Pakur, and another fourth line connecting Santragachi with Kharagpur.

These railway upgrades will span approximately 192 kilometres across five districts in West Bengal and Jharkhand.

The government has allocated an estimated investment of ₹4,474 crore for the initiative.

Authorities expect the new tracks to significantly increase freight transport capacity by nearly 31 million tonnes annually.

The expansion will improve railway connectivity for more than 5,652 villages, benefiting around 14.7 million residents in the region.

Officials believe the enhanced rail network will accelerate industrial supply chains and strengthen the movement of commodities such as coal, steel, and food grains.

The project will also support tourism by improving access to prominent destinations such as Shantiniketan and Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Authorities estimate the initiative will reduce carbon emissions by nearly 28 crore kilograms annually.

This environmental benefit equals the ecological impact of planting about one crore trees.

The railway expansion aligns with the national logistics initiative PM Gati Shakti, which focuses on integrated multimodal infrastructure development.

The Cabinet’s approval follows similar rail projects cleared in February 2026 worth ₹9,072 crore.

Officials expect the newly sanctioned railway lines to support economic growth and strengthen freight logistics across eastern India, with completion targeted by 2030-31.

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