Bilaspur (Uslapur)-Pendra Road third line and Katni-Pendra Road fourth line will strengthen the state's rail network

With the increase in the capacity of the rail network, along with passenger facilities, industry, trade and freight transport will get a new impetus.

Connectivity of major tourist and faith centers including Achanakmar, Ratanpur, Malhar will be better

Chief Minister Shri Sai expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnav

Raipur, September 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai welcomed the approval of three important multi-tracking rail projects worth Rs 10,783 crore by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that among these, the Bilaspur (Uslapur)-Pendra Road third line and the Katni-Pendra Road fourth line are particularly important for Chhattisgarh's development. These projects will increase the capacity of the state's rail network, expand passenger facilities, and make freight transportation more accessible and efficient for industry and trade.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, work is progressing at an unprecedented pace towards building modern and robust rail infrastructure in the country. Chhattisgarh is also continuously benefiting from this. The new multi-tracking projects will accelerate the commitment to a developed India and a developed Chhattisgarh, while also expanding economic activities, industrial development, and new employment opportunities in the state.

Chief Minister Shri Sai has expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the people of Chhattisgarh to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnav for this important decision.

Capacity and connectivity of the rail network will be expanded

The three projects approved by the Union Cabinet include the Kharagpur-Jharsuguda (Bagdehi) fourth line, the Katni-Pendra Road fourth line, and the Bilaspur (Uslapur)-Pendra Road third line. Their total estimated cost is ₹10,783 crore and they are scheduled to be completed by 2029-30.

These three projects will strengthen rail connectivity in 14 districts of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, expanding the existing Indian Railways network by approximately 656 kilometers. Approximately 4,790 villages and a population of approximately 5.6 million will benefit from improved rail connectivity.

Bilaspur-Pendra rail corridor will get strengthened

The approval of the Bilaspur (Uslapur)-Pendra Road third line and the Katni-Pendra Road fourth line holds special significance for Chhattisgarh. These projects will increase the capacity of this vital rail corridor. The additional line capacity will facilitate smoother train operations, help reduce rail traffic congestion, and ensure more efficient and reliable passenger and freight movement. The increased capacity of this rail corridor will also strengthen Chhattisgarh's connectivity with the rest of the country. This will benefit not only ordinary travelers but also the state's industrial and commercial activities.

Industry and trade will get new momentum

The approved rail projects are also crucial for the transportation of critical commodities, including coal, cement, iron, and steel. Multitracking will significantly increase the freight capacity of the rail network. Together, the three projects are expected to add approximately 27 million tons of additional freight capacity annually.

Chhattisgarh is a state rich in mineral and industrial resources. Therefore, a better rail and logistics network will be a key pillar for the state's industrial development. Easier freight transportation will provide better logistics facilities to industries and encourage new investment, trade, and employment opportunities in the state.