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The Union Cabinet recently approved a multi-tracking project for the Ministry of Railways in Uttar Pradesh, with an estimated cost of ?2,642 crore. The project aims to alleviate congestion and streamline operations on some of the busiest railway sections, providing vital infrastructure development in the Varanasi and Chandauli districts.
According to a statement from the Union Cabinet, the project is set to enhance freight capacity, with an expected 28 million tonnes of additional freight projected. Officials estimate that each million tonnes of freight generates approximately ?10,000 crore in revenue for Indian Railways.
The Varanasi Railway Station, a key hub for Indian Railways, plays a critical role in connecting major zones and serving pilgrims, tourists, and local populations. The Varanasi to Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) Junction route, which is essential for both passenger and freight traffic, faces significant congestion due to the transport of goods such as coal, cement, and food grains, in addition to rising tourism and industrial demands. It is considered the most congested section in the entire railway network.
To address these issues, the approved infrastructure upgrades will include the construction of a new rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga River, along with the addition of 3rd and 4th railway lines. These improvements are expected to boost capacity and efficiency, while supporting socio-economic growth in the region.
The project will expand Indian Railways’ network by approximately 30 kilometers and reduce carbon emissions by 149 crore kilograms, equivalent to planting six crore trees, the cabinet noted. |
