New Delhi, Oct 16 (UNI) The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday approved the construction of Varanasi-Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya multi-tracking rail project with an estimated investment of Rs 2,642 crore.
The project also includes a new Rail-cum-Road Bridge across Ganga river.
The proposed project will improve logistical efficiency by connecting the unconnected areas, and enhancing transportation networks, resulting in streamlined supply chains and accelerated economic growth. The project will also generate direct employment for about 10 lakh human-days during construction.
“The Varanasi-Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) Junction route, vital for both passenger and freight traffic, faces heavy congestion due to its role in transporting goods like coal, cement, and foodgrains, as well as serving growing tourism and industrial demands. To address this issue, infrastructure upgrades are needed, including a new rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga River and the addition of 3rd and 4th railway lines,” said an official release.
It added, “Apart from relief in congestion in the stretch, 27.83 MTPA freight is anticipated on the proposed stretch.”
The rail project covering two districts in Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi and Chandauli, will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 30 Kms.