In a significant boost to regional connectivity, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved two major multi-tracking railway projects worth ₹4,474 crore for West Bengal and Jharkhand. Spanning a total distance of 192 km, these projects aim to de-congest busy routes and improve the transit of both passengers and freight.

Project Highlights:

• Vast Coverage: The new rail lines will provide connectivity to 5,652 villages, directly benefiting approximately 1.47 crore people.
• Key Sections: The approval includes the construction of 4th lines in the Sainthia-Pakur and Santragachi-Kharagpur sections, critical for mineral transport and passenger traffic.
• Tourism & Deadlines: The projects will enhance access to major tourist and religious hubs like Shantiniketan and Tarapith. The government aims to complete the work by the financial year 2030-31.