In a significant step towards sustainability, Indian Railways has approved a Rs 18,658 crore project aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 477 crore kilograms and cutting oil imports by 95 crore liters annually. The initiative is part of the national transporter’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
The project includes four multitracking ventures spanning 1,247 kilometers across 15 districts in Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. These upgrades are expected to enhance freight capacity, improve connectivity, and support regional development. Additionally, the project will benefit over 4.72 million people across 3,350 villages, with 19 new stations planned to boost accessibility.
The multitracking efforts are projected to generate an additional 88.77 million tonnes of freight traffic annually, supporting industries such as agriculture, coal, steel, and cement. This will not only strengthen supply chains but also contribute to economic growth.
Aligned with India’s climate goals, the project emphasizes environmental sustainability by reducing dependency on fossil fuels and enhancing logistics efficiency. The initiative is expected to lower transportation costs, making Indian exports more competitive globally.
This ambitious project underscores Indian Railways’ role as a key driver of regional and national development while advancing the country’s green energy goals.