The Central Government has taken a major step towards strengthening the rail network and industrial connectivity between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the two major states of South India. The Union Cabinet has given its green signal to the proposal for construction of the third and fourth railway lines between Ballari and Guntakal section. This 46 km long rail project, which is being built with a huge investment of ₹ 1,264 crore, will be ready in the next 3 years. This project will not only increase the speed and number of trains, but will also give a new dimension to the trade activities between the two states.
Huge infrastructure will be created under this new railway line to be laid on Ballari-Guntakal route. The length of this route will be 46 kilometers, the total cost of which is ₹1,264 crore. A 762 meter long mega bridge will be built on the Vedavati river on this railway route. Apart from this, construction of 7 big bridges and 52 small bridges is also included.
Steel and cement cluster will get direct benefit
This new rail line will make transportation of goods from the large steel and cement cluster of Ballari-Hospet much easier and faster. Additionally, the project will improve connectivity with ports and ease access to major tourist destinations. With the commencement of this project, an additional capacity of 16 million tonnes of freight will be developed every year. At the same time, huge savings of ₹ 149 crore are expected annually in logistics costs.
Environmental protection and new employment opportunities
This railway project is going to prove to be very beneficial not only from the economic but also from the environmental point of view. Shifting freight transportation to railways will save 6.67 crore kg of carbon dioxide emissions every year, which is equivalent to planting about 27 lakh trees. Additionally, employment opportunities equivalent to 31 lakh man-days will be generated during the construction and operation of the project, which will greatly benefit the local youth. Let us tell you that recently the Modi cabinet had approved two important multi-tracking railway projects for Odisha and Jharkhand. About Rs 3,907 crore will be spent on these projects. After their completion, the Indian Railway network will increase by about 145 kilometers and the operation of trains will be faster and easier than before.
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SK Sharma is a content writer who writes on news, entertainment, and lifestyle topics. She has over four years of experience and is known for conveying information in simple and clear language.
