New Delhi: The Network Planning Group meeting reviewed eight major infrastructure proposals on Tuesday, with a clear focus on improving multimodal connectivity under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan.
The 105th Network Planning Group meeting examined seven railway projects and one road project. In doing so, officials assessed each proposal for integrated planning, last-mile connectivity, and a whole-of-government approach.
As a result, the group said the projects would ease congestion and expand network capacity. Moreover, officials noted that the initiatives would improve freight movement and passenger services. Therefore, they said the projects would reduce travel time and support regional economies.
Railway proposals, meanwhile, dominated the agenda. The Ministry of Railways presented projects that add new lines, double key corridors, and create multi-tracking sections. Together, these works aim to meet rising freight demand and support industrial growth.
Rail and road projects assessed at Network Planning Group meeting
First, the group reviewed the proposed third and fourth railway lines between Arakkonam and Renigunta. The 76.559 km corridor spans Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Notably, officials said it would strengthen a high-density route under Mission 3000 MT and improve links to highways, airports, and industrial hubs.
Next, the group examined the doubling of the Erode–Karur section and the Salem–Karur–Dindigul corridor in Tamil Nadu. Together, these projects cover more than 225 km. Consequently, officials said they would strengthen supply chains for cement, steel, textiles, agriculture, and power generation.
Similarly, the meeting reviewed third and fourth line proposals between Guntakal–Bellary and Guntakal–Wadi. These routes pass through Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. As a result, officials said the corridors would improve coal movement and serve mineral-rich industrial belts.
In Telangana, the group assessed third and fourth lines between Yadadri and Kazipet. At the same time, it reviewed a fourth line between Ghatkesar and Yadadri. According to officials, the corridor connects major cities and industrial clusters and benefits from strong road and airport access.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Railways presented an electrified multi-tracking line between Talegaon and Uruli in Pune district. In addition, the ministry said the line would support logistics parks and industrial hubs. It would also integrate with high-density rail routes.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, however, presented the only road project. Officials outlined plans to upgrade NH-544D from Vinukonda to Guntur in Andhra Pradesh. As a result, the four-lane highway will link NH-44 and NH-16. Officials added that it would cut travel time by nearly 52% and improve freight movement to Amaravati.
Finally, the Joint Secretary (Logistics), Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, chaired the meeting. He said coordinated planning, therefore, remained central to improving national logistics performance.
