Cabinet Approves Eight New Railway Projects to Boost Connectivity & Economy

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved eight new railway projects, aimed at improving connectivity, facilitating easier travel, and reducing oil imports and CO2 emissions. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the logistical and economic benefits. The total estimated cost is Rs 24,657 crore, potentially saving 767 crore kg of CO2.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has greenlit eight new railway projects, in an ambitious move aimed at enhancing connectivity and easing travel across the nation. This decision was disclosed during a briefing by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday.

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that these projects are expected to significantly improve logistical efficiency by linking previously unconnected areas, boosting the transportation network, and thereby accelerating economic growth. The plans are aligned with streamlining supply chains to foster robust economic development.

The entire initiative comes with a hefty price tag of Rs 24,657 crore. However, the projects promise to deliver substantial environmental benefits, with an estimated reduction of 767 crore kg of CO2 emissions—equivalent to planting 30 crore trees, according to Vaishnaw.