Udit Vani Jamshedpur: In a major infrastructure boost for Jharkhand, the Union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a key rail doubling project—Koderma–Barkakana (133 km)—as part of a broader Rs 6,405 crore investment across Indian Railways.
This ambitious initiative spans seven districts across Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, and aims to strengthen the nation’s rail connectivity through a total network expansion of 318 Km.
The Koderma–Barkakana line, running through one of Jharkhand’s key coal-producing belts, is not only critical for freight movement but also serves as the shortest and most efficient rail link between Patna and Ranchi.
The project is expected to significantly enhance mobility, decongest existing routes, and improve travel convenience in the region.
Complementing this, the second approved project—Ballari–Chikjajur doubling (185 km)—will enhance rail infrastructure in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Together, these multitracking initiatives are aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, promoting multi-modal connectivity and integrated development.
Key highlights of the projects include:
* Direct employment generation of approximately 108 lakh human-days during construction
* Improved connectivity to 1,408 villages, impacting over 28.19 lakh people
* Reduction of 52 crore litres of oil imports
* CO₂ emission reduction of 264 crore kg, equivalent to planting 11 crore trees
* Increased freight capacity by 49 MTPA, benefitting transportation of coal, steel, cement, fertilizers, agri-products, and petroleum
These developments are expected to contribute to the government’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, enabling self-reliance and economic growth in Jharkhand and beyond, while pushing India closer to its climate and sustainability goals.
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