38 key rail projects to boost coal logistics, coordinated with the Ministry of Railways.
The Ministry of Coal has identified 38 priority rail projects under its coal logistics plan, which will be expedited in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways. These initiatives are designed to enhance rail connectivity, ensure timely coal delivery, and lower logistics costs, thereby improving the overall efficiency of coal transportation nationwide. The ministry’s statement on Thursday emphasised the importance of these projects for a robust coal evacuation network.
The Coal Ministry’s strategic plan aims to develop critical logistics infrastructure to support India’s energy security by ensuring a steady and reliable coal supply to power plants and industries. This initiative aligns with the union government’s comprehensive strategy to transform the coal sector, fast-track infrastructure development, and foster collaboration among key stakeholders.
Two significant rail projects in Odisha have received recent approval: the Sardega-Bhalumuda double line and the Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line. The 37.24 km-long Sardega-Bhalumuda double line, traversing coal blocks in the IB Valley and Mand-Raigarh Coalfield, will facilitate coal evacuation from Mahanadi Coalfields (MCL) and private mines, reducing the transportation distance to Northern India’s power plants and enhancing efficiency.
