Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 31 (ANI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday welcomed the Union Cabinet's approval of two major railway projects in the state, aimed at enhancing connectivity and creating jobs.

The Cabinet has approved two major railway projects for the state, the Itarsi-Nagpur fourth line and the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar-Parbhani doubling project.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the initiatives, which are expected to improve transportation, reduce logistics costs, and foster balanced development in the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions.

In a post on X, Devendra Fadnavis wrote, 'A Milestone Moment for Maharashtra's Rail Connectivity! Gratitude to Hon PM Narendra Modi Ji, Hon Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw ji and the Union Cabinet for approving 2 major railway infrastructure projects in Maharashtra that will strengthen connectivity, boost logistics, and generate large-scale employment across key regions: Itarsi-Nagpur (4th Line, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar-Parbhani (Doubling)'

https://x.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1950924043676422453

'New rail boost for Vidarbha and Marathwada, more jobs, faster transport, stronger growth. Every track brings Maharashtra closer to balanced progress,' the post reads.

Earlier in the day, in a significant decision which will help decongest the railway network and reduce logistics costs, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved four multitracking projects covering 13 districts across the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand.

Briefing the media after the cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwani Vaishnaw said that the projects include Itarsi-Nagpur fourth line; Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) - Parbhani Doubling; Aluabari Road - New Jalpaiguri third and fourth line; and Dangoaposi - Jaroli third and fourth line.

Vaishnaw, who is also the Union Railways Minister, said the increased line capacity will significantly enhance mobility, resulting in improved operational efficiency and service reliability for Indian Railways. These multi-tracking proposals are poised to streamline operations and alleviate congestion.

The decision was taken at the CCEA meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 574 kilometres.

The total estimated cost of the projects is about Rs 11,169 crore and will be completed upto 2028-29.

The projects are expected to generate direct employment for about 229 lakh human-days during construction. (ANI)