The Union Cabinet, under PM Modi’s leadership, has approved two major rail doubling projects to strengthen India’s transportation backbone. These include the Koderma–Barkakana line in Jharkhand and the Ballari–Chikjajur line spanning Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Together, the projects cover 318 km and will cost an estimated Rs 6,405 crore, to be completed in the next three years.
Koderma–Barkakana Line to Ease Ranchi–Patna Travel
The 133 km Koderma–Barkakana line, costing Rs 3,063 crore, is the shortest rail link between Patna and Ranchi. The route covers four districts and will benefit 15 lakh people across 938 villages.
Infrastructure includes:
- 17 major bridges
- 180 minor bridges
- 42 ROBs and 13 RUBs
It will support 30.4 million tonnes of extra cargo annually and help save 163 crore kg of CO₂ emissions — equivalent to planting 7 crore trees.
Ballari–Chikjajur Line to Power Freight Corridors
The 185 km Ballari–Chikjajur line, cleared at Rs 3,342 crore, is key for freight movement from Mangalore Port to Secunderabad. It boosts connectivity in Ballari, Chitradurga, and Ananthpur districts.
Key stats:
- 19 stations
- 29 major bridges, 230 minor bridges
- 21 ROBs and 85 RUBs
It will serve 13 lakh people across 470 villages, moving an extra 18.9 million tonnes of cargo each year.
Eco-Friendly and Economically Impactful
Both projects are expected to cut carbon emissions significantly:
- Koderma–Barkakana: Saves 32 crore litres of diesel
- Ballari–Chikjajur: Saves 20 crore litres of diesel
Together, the lines bring green transport benefits, reduce road congestion, and support India’s climate goals while enhancing regional economic development.
