From Our Correspondent
New Delhi: In a major infrastructure boost for Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, the Union Cabinet has approved the construction of the third and fourth railway lines between Ballari and Guntakal at an estimated cost of ₹1,264 crore. The project is expected to significantly enhance freight capacity on one of South India’s key mineral transport corridors while benefiting the industrial ecosystem of the Rayalaseema region.
The decision was taken at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.
Announcing the approval, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project would cover 46 km, including 22 km in Andhra Pradesh and 24 km in Karnataka, spanning three districts across the two states.
Freight capacity to increase by 16.22 million tonnes
The railway expansion is aimed at easing congestion and supporting the movement of bulk commodities such as iron ore, dolomite, limestone, iron and steel products, fertilisers and foodgrains from the Ballari-Guntakal industrial belt.
According to the Railway Ministry, the project will create an additional freight handling capacity of 16.22 million tonnes annually, while reducing logistics costs by around ₹149 crore every year.
The ministry has set a target of completing the project within three years.
Major engineering works planned
The project includes the construction of:
- A 762-metre mega bridge across the Vedavati River
- Seven major bridges
- Fifty-two minor bridges
The enhanced rail connectivity is expected to benefit nearly 700,000 people living in the project region.
Boost for Rayalaseema industries
The Ballari-Guntakal railway corridor serves as an important freight route connecting the mineral-rich districts of Karnataka with industries and ports in Andhra Pradesh.
Industry observers say the additional railway lines will improve evacuation of minerals, reduce congestion on the existing route, lower transportation costs and strengthen supply chains for steel, cement, fertiliser and manufacturing industries operating in the region.
Chandrababu welcomes approval
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for approving the project.
He described the decision as a significant milestone for Andhra Pradesh’s development, particularly for the Rayalaseema region, stating that the enhanced railway infrastructure would improve connectivity and support industrial and economic growth.