As a leading shipping and logistics company in India, Abhyansh is committed to supporting and highlighting the transformative infrastructure developments that are shaping our nation’s future. The 74th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) under PM GatiShakti, chaired by Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, Additional Secretary of DPIIT, evaluated five significant infrastructure projects that promise to revolutionize India’s transport and logistics landscape. These projects, spearheaded by the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, align with the principles of integrated planning outlined in the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP).
Balaram – Tentuloi New Railway Line (MCRL Phase II) in Odisha
This ambitious greenfield project entails the construction of a 49.58 km rail line in the Angul district of Odisha, at an estimated cost of INR 1,404 Crores. The primary objective is to provide vital first-mile rail connectivity for 11 coal blocks, thereby reducing logistics costs for industries and generating employment opportunities. This project is poised to significantly enhance the transport efficiency of coal, benefiting both the local economy and the broader industrial landscape of Odisha.
Budhapank – Luburi New Railway Line (MCRL Outer Corridor) in Odisha
Another critical project in Odisha involves the construction of a 106 km greenfield rail line at an estimated cost of INR 3,478 Crores. This line will support efficient coal evacuation from the Mahanadi River Basin, facilitating the transportation of coal from Talcher Coal Fields. By reducing the average distance to the railhead from 43 km to 4.2 km, this project will enhance logistical efficiency and reduce costs for core industries such as iron and steel.
Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase I-B East – West Corridor (Charbagh to Vasant Kunj) in Uttar Pradesh
The extension of the Lucknow Metro corridor by 11.165 km addresses the city’s growing transportation needs. With an estimated cost of INR 5,801 Crores, this project aims to cater to an additional 200,000 passengers per day, significantly reducing congestion and vehicular pollution. The strategically located stations will seamlessly connect points of interchange, enhancing public transport accessibility through an integrated network. The development plan also emphasizes the use of renewable energy through rooftop installations, reducing conventional energy consumption.
Upgradation of Existing 6 Lane Road Including Elevated Corridor of NH-47 (Narol Jn. to Sarkhej Jn.) in Gujarat
This brownfield project involves upgrading a 10.63 km section of NH-47 at an estimated cost of INR 1,295 Crores. The project aims to alleviate increasing traffic congestion in the southern part of Ahmedabad, connecting major highways and expressways. By facilitating smoother and safer traffic flow, this upgrade will enhance the movement of goods and people, contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
4-Laning of Section of NH-166 from Chokak to Sangli (Ankali) in Maharashtra
The four-laning of a 33.6 km section of NH-166, at an estimated cost of INR 864 Crores, aims to enhance connectivity between Kolhapur and Sangli in Maharashtra. This development will reduce travel time by 50% and distance by about 5.4 km, significantly impacting environmental attributes by saving fuel and reducing pollution from vehicle emissions.
Conclusion
The Network Planning Group (NPG) evaluated these projects based on the principles of PM GatiShakti, focusing on integrated multimodal infrastructure development, last-mile connectivity, intermodal connectivity, and synchronized implementation. These projects are expected to play pivotal roles in nation-building by integrating various modes of transport and providing substantial socio-economic benefits. As we at Abhyansh continue to support such transformative initiatives, we remain committed to contributing to the overall development and ease of living in the regions we serve.
