Indian Railways Approves ₹440 Crore Third Line Project Between Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur of South Eastern Railway

Why in news

Indian Railways has approved the construction of a 14.52 km third line between Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur in South Eastern Railway at a cost of ₹440 crore to enhance rail capacity on a high-density route.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Indian Railways has approved the construction of a 14.52 km third line.
2. The project is located between Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur on South Eastern Railway.
3. The estimated cost of the project is ₹440 crore.
4. This section is part of the High Utilisation Network (HUN-2) route.
5. The project aims to support an additional 3.52 MTPA traffic.
6. It will strengthen the movement of coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and other essential commodities.

Prelims pointers

• A 14.52 km third line project has been approved by Indian Railways.
• The project is situated between Nimpura West Outer Cabin and Midnapur.
• The project cost is ₹440 crore.
• The section is part of the High Utilisation Network (HUN-2) route.
• The project aims to handle an additional 3.52 MTPA traffic.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of infrastructure development in Indian Railways, particularly focusing on capacity augmentation projects on high-density routes, using the recent approval of the Nimpura West Outer Cabin to Midnapur third line project as a case study.

Static linkage

Indian Railways is a crucial component of India's infrastructure, vital for both passenger and freight movement. Projects like this third line are part of continuous efforts to upgrade and expand its capacity, particularly on high-density routes, to support economic growth and ensure the efficient transport of goods and people. The High Utilisation Network (HUN) routes are critical arteries within the railway network.

Significance

The approval of this third line project is significant for enhancing the capacity and operational efficiency of the South Eastern Railway, a key corridor for freight movement. It will facilitate faster movement of passenger and freight trains, reduce congestion, and support the transportation of essential commodities like coal, iron ore, and cement. This augmentation of infrastructure is crucial for industrial growth and economic development, especially in regions dependent on rail transport for raw materials and finished goods. The increased capacity will also contribute to reducing logistics costs.