The 102nd meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) convened on Thursday to review major infrastructure proposals from the Ministry of Railways (MoR) and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH).
The meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Joint Secretary, Logistics, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
The session focused on assessing the projects’ conformity with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP), aimed at enhancing multimodal connectivity and strengthening logistics efficiency across the country.
A total of three projects, including one highway project and two railway projects, were evaluated.
All were examined on parameters such as integrated infrastructure planning, last-mile connectivity to key economic and social nodes, and alignment with the government’s “Whole of Government” approach.
The Ministry of Railways proposed a 49.57-km third and fourth rail line between Punarakh and Kiul stations in Bihar, cutting across Patna and Lakhisarai districts.
The project aims to strengthen one of the state’s crucial industrial and agricultural corridors.
The expanded capacity is expected to significantly benefit major industrial establishments, including Ultratech Cement, ACC Cement (Warsaliganj), NTPC Barauni, NTPC Barh, Harnaut Carriage Repair Workshop, and SJVN’s Chausa power plant.
Small and medium industries in Fatuha, Patna–Patliputra, Mokama, Barhiya, and Lakhisarai are also set to gain from improved freight movement.
The enhanced connectivity will also boost tourism by improving access to key attractions such as Mahavir Mandir, Gandhi Sangrahalaya, Gol Ghar, Khuda Baksh Library, Bihar Museum, and Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib.
A new 27.50-km broad-gauge railway line between Silghat and Dekargaon was presented for evaluation.
Strategically aligned near NH-15 and NH-715, the project aims to strengthen rail-road integration and enhance regional multimodal transport.
The proposed line is designed to augment capacity between Dekargaon and New Silghat, accommodating rising freight and passenger demand.
The project is expected to stimulate economic activity, trade, and tourism across Assam, supporting long-term development across the northeastern region.
MoRTH proposed the construction of a four-lane elevated corridor stretching 9.66 km from Old Pune Naka to Boramani Naka on NH-65 in Solapur.
Developed under Bharatmala Pariyojana (Phase-I), the project includes approach ramps and service roads aimed at easing urban congestion.
The corridor is expected to reduce travel time, enhance urban mobility, improve road safety, and cut vehicular emissions. It will also support economic growth and promote religious and cultural tourism in the region.