The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the doubling of the 104-km Bakhtiyarpur–Rajgir–Tilaiya single railway line section in Bihar at an estimated cost of Rs 2,192 crore. Covering four districts in the state, the project will add about 104 km to the Indian Railways network and provide enhanced rail connectivity to key destinations such as Rajgir (Shanti Stupa), Nalanda and Pawapuri, which attract pilgrims and tourists from across the country.

The multi-tracking project will improve connectivity for around 1,434 villages and benefit a population of about 13.46 lakh, including residents of two aspirational districts — Gaya and Nawada. This line is a vital route for transporting commodities such as coal, cement, clinker and fly ash. Once completed, the capacity augmentation works will accommodate an additional 26 million tonnes of freight annually.

The project is also expected to generate significant environmental benefits. By reducing oil imports by approximately 5 crore litres and cutting CO2 emissions by 24 crore kg — equivalent to planting one crore trees — it supports India’s climate and sustainability goals. Enhanced line capacity will improve mobility, operational efficiency and service reliability, while easing congestion on one of the busiest sections of the Indian Railways.

Planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, the project focuses on enhancing multi-modal connectivity and logistics efficiency through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. This initiative reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of a “New India” by driving comprehensive regional development and creating more employment and self-employment opportunities, helping make the region more “Atmanirbhar.”