The Union Cabinet approved the Ballari–Guntakal rail multitracking project on 24 July 2026, for construction of third and fourth lines across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh at an estimated cost of ₹1,264 crore.
Project features
- Scope: Construction of third and fourth lines on Ballari–Guntakal section; adds about 46 km of track.
- Nature: Multitracking on an existing route — capacity augmentation, not a greenfield alignment.
- Cost approval: ₹1,264 crore (Cabinet sanction, July 2026).
Route & location
- States covered: Karnataka (Ballari) and Andhra Pradesh (Guntakal junction).
- Rail linkages: Integrates with Guntakal junction, a nodal point for south‑central and south‑western routes.
Capacity & socio‑economic metrics
- Freight capacity: Projected additional throughput of 16.22 million tonnes per year.
- Local impact: Estimated to benefit ~99 villages and generate 31 lakh human‑days of employment.
Implementation & timeline
- Timeline: Targeted completion in 2028–29.
- Planning framework: Included under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for integrated infrastructure planning.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Multitracking use: Third and fourth lines are standard on high‑density corridors to segregate passenger and freight movements.
- Executing agency: Project to be implemented by Indian Railways with central funding allocations.