New Delhi: The 110th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) was convened under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to evaluate a series of critical infrastructure projects aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan.
The meeting focused on strengthening multimodal connectivity and improving logistics efficiency through integrated planning. In total, the NPG assessed six infrastructure projects, including two railway projects, two metro projects, and two road and highway projects, for their adherence to core PM GatiShakti principles such as seamless multimodal integration, last-mile connectivity, and a ‘Whole of Government’ approach.
These projects are expected to significantly enhance logistics performance, reduce travel time, and deliver substantial socio-economic benefits to the regions they serve.
Key Railway Projects Evaluated
Doubling of Arakkonam–Chengalpattu Rail Line (Tamil Nadu)
The Ministry of Railways has proposed the doubling of the existing single broad-gauge railway line between Chengalpattu and Arakkonam in Tamil Nadu.
Spanning approximately 67.8 km, the project traverses the districts of Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, and Ranipet under the Chennai Division of Southern Railway. The alignment includes 12 stations, comprising key junctions, crossing stations, and halt stations.
The project aims to:
- Enhance line capacity and operational efficiency
- Reduce congestion and delays
- Enable smoother passenger and freight movement
- Strengthen regional connectivity
Once completed, the doubling is expected to support economic growth in the region while improving the reliability and frequency of rail services.
Quadrupling of Whitefield–Bangarpet Section (Karnataka)
Another major proposal by the Ministry of Railways involves the quadrupling of the rail line between Whitefield and Bangarpet in Karnataka, covering approximately 47 km.
The project is a critical component of the Bengaluru–Chennai corridor, aimed at significantly boosting logistics efficiency. Under the plan:
- The existing double line will primarily serve passenger trains
- The additional two lines will be dedicated to freight movement
This segregation is expected to:
- Reduce train detention and improve punctuality
- Increase overall line capacity
- Lower transportation costs
- Enhance movement of key commodities such as EXIM cargo, steel, cement, petroleum products, fertilizers, and agricultural produce
The corridor plays a vital role in inter-state connectivity between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and supports major freight terminals and industrial hubs. The project is expected to strengthen supply chains, improve logistics performance, and enhance the global competitiveness of Indian industries.
Driving Integrated Infrastructure Growth
The evaluation of these projects reflects the government’s continued emphasis on integrated infrastructure development under the PM GatiShakti framework. By aligning transport planning across sectors and regions, the initiative aims to create a more efficient, cost-effective, and future-ready logistics ecosystem.
The projects reviewed in the meeting are poised to play a crucial role in accelerating regional development, boosting industrial activity, and enhancing overall connectivity across the country.
