This article explores the major projects evaluated during the NPG meeting, their anticipated impact on logistics and tourism, and their potential to drive economic growth in various regions across India.
PM GatiShakti National Master Plan: A Game-Changer for Connectivity
PM GatiShakti, a national initiative launched to integrate various modes of transport and logistics, aims to reduce infrastructure bottlenecks, optimize supply chain processes, and enhance regional connectivity. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to infrastructure development, ensuring that projects are aligned with broader socio-economic goals, including the facilitation of seamless travel, improved logistics, and enhanced access to remote areas.
The Network Planning Group (NPG) plays a pivotal role in evaluating and approving projects that align with the principles of PM GatiShakti, ensuring that every initiative supports the overarching vision of creating integrated, multimodal infrastructure that benefits the nation’s economy and its people.
The recent evaluation meeting covered several key projects that will have a lasting impact on travel, tourism, and logistics across India. Among the highlighted projects were railway expansions, road upgrades, and the development of strategic corridors aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic growth.
Ministry of Railways: Building Resilient and Strategic Railway Networks
India’s railway network plays an essential role in the nation’s transportation infrastructure, and the projects under the Ministry of Railways evaluated during the NPG meeting are designed to further strengthen this critical sector. The proposed projects include the construction of new railway lines, the doubling of existing tracks, and the expansion of important rail corridors, all of which are expected to enhance both passenger and freight transport capacity.
New Broad Gauge Line from Baramulla to Uri
One of the most significant projects discussed was the proposed 40.2 km railway line connecting Baramulla to Uri in Jammu & Kashmir. This new line will address the frequent disruptions that affect road travel during harsh weather conditions, providing a reliable alternative for both locals and tourists. The region, which is situated near the Line of Control (LoC), is already a growing tourism destination. The introduction of rail connectivity is expected to provide a significant boost to local tourism, enabling smoother access for visitors while also offering military and strategic advantages due to its proximity to key army establishments.
The new railway line will include three Road Under Bridges (RUBs) and nine Road Over Bridges (ROBs), further enhancing the safety and efficiency of the infrastructure. This project holds the potential to unlock tourism in the region, which will likely see increased foot traffic from travelers interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. The improved connectivity will also support the local economy by making it easier for businesses to access markets and resources.
Doubling of Qazigund to Badgam Railway Line
The doubling of the Qazigund to Badgam railway line is another major project under the Ministry of Railways that promises to significantly improve transportation in Jammu & Kashmir. The existing single-track line currently limits the volume of traffic, resulting in delays and inefficiencies. Doubling the track will not only increase capacity but also enhance the speed and reliability of services, benefiting both passengers and the freight industry.
The expanded railway line will be integrated with the Katra-Banihal section, connecting it to the broader Indian Railways network. This strategic development will provide smoother, faster, and more reliable connections for both the military and civilian populations, particularly in areas with significant defense and economic importance. The project will also contribute to the region’s tourism sector by improving accessibility to popular destinations within Jammu & Kashmir, thereby boosting the local economy.
Third and Fourth Lines Between Ambala and Jalandhar
The proposed third and fourth railway lines between Ambala and Jalandhar, covering a total distance of 138 km, will provide crucial capacity augmentation on one of India’s busiest railway corridors. This project will reduce congestion, improve travel times, and enhance the overall efficiency of the rail network. The alignment passes through key districts in Punjab and Haryana, benefiting agriculture, trade, tourism, and industry in the region.
The additional tracks will facilitate the faster movement of freight, especially for critical goods like agricultural products and industrial equipment. They will also provide better connectivity to the region’s important economic hubs, contributing to increased trade and commerce. For tourists, the improved railway infrastructure will make it easier to access destinations in Punjab and beyond, further boosting the tourism potential of this culturally rich and historically significant area.
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways: Upgrading Road Infrastructure for Better Connectivity
Road transport remains one of the most important modes of transportation in India, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has been working on a series of road expansion and upgrading projects under PM GatiShakti to improve connectivity across regions. These projects are expected to reduce travel times, improve safety, and enhance accessibility to previously underserved areas.
Construction of 4-Lane Divided Carriageway from Khagaria to Purnia
One of the major road projects evaluated in the meeting is the upgradation of the existing two-lane road to a four-lane divided carriageway between Khagaria and Purnia in Bihar. This 140 km stretch of the highway is a vital link that connects remote districts in the Seemanchal region with Patna and other urban centers. The project will improve road safety, reduce congestion, and significantly cut down travel times between these key areas.
This upgrade is expected to drive inclusive growth in the Seemanchal region by improving access to markets, healthcare, education, and other essential services. It will also contribute to the region’s economic development by enhancing logistics efficiency, making it easier to transport goods like agricultural products, and facilitating smoother travel for tourists. The road’s connection to the Patna-Purnia Expressway will further integrate the region into the national road network, unlocking its full potential.
Socio-Economic Impact: Boosting Logistics, Trade, and Tourism
The infrastructure projects evaluated under the PM GatiShakti initiative are expected to have significant socio-economic benefits for India’s various regions. By enhancing connectivity, reducing travel times, and improving the efficiency of logistics, these projects will help to lower the cost of doing business and open up new markets for both domestic and international trade.
In the tourism sector, better infrastructure means improved accessibility to some of India’s most scenic, culturally rich, and historically important destinations. For example, the railway projects in Jammu & Kashmir and the road expansion in Bihar will facilitate easier access to tourism hotspots, encouraging both domestic and international tourists to visit these areas. This increased accessibility will lead to more investment in tourism-related infrastructure, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Infrastructure Development
The 99th meeting of the Network Planning Group highlights the critical importance of integrated, multimodal infrastructure development under PM GatiShakti. By aligning projects with the principles of connectivity, efficiency, and sustainability, the Indian government is setting the stage for a more resilient, dynamic, and inclusive economy. These infrastructure initiatives are not just about improving travel and logistics—they are about transforming regions, empowering local communities, and opening up new avenues for economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange.
As these projects move from planning to implementation, their impact will be felt across India’s diverse regions. They will improve the daily lives of citizens, facilitate smoother trade and logistics, and enhance the experience for travelers, making India an even more attractive destination for both business and leisure
Tags: Network Planning Group (NPG),
