NPG clears four infrastructure projects to strengthen multimodal logistics connectivity

By Admin

12 Nov, 2025

The Network Planning Group (NPG), operating under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, has approved four major infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing logistics efficiency and strengthening multimodal connectivity across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The approval was granted during the NPG’s 101st meeting, marking a significant milestone in advancing India’s integrated infrastructure planning strategy.

Road Projects to Ease Freight Congestion

Two major road infrastructure projects have been cleared to improve last-mile connectivity to industrial and port zones.

• The NH-160A (Ghoti–Palghar) project in Maharashtra will play a crucial role in linking manufacturing clusters with the western coastal ports, enabling faster movement of goods and raw materials.
  
  

• The Ashapur–Rudhy (Betul–Khandwa) corridor in Madhya Pradesh is expected to enhance connectivity between industrial hubs and agricultural markets, reducing travel time and boosting trade efficiency.
  
  

Railway Projects for High-Density Freight Corridors

In the railway sector, the NPG has approved the construction of third and fourth railway lines between Gamharia–Chandil and Sainthia–Pakur, covering key stretches in Jharkhand and West Bengal. These rail lines form part of high-density freight corridors, which are critical for transporting minerals, coal, and other bulk commodities vital to regional industries.
By increasing freight-carrying capacity and easing congestion on existing routes, these upgrades will help facilitate smoother and more reliable cargo movement across the eastern region.

Advancing India’s Multimodal Logistics Vision

Collectively, the approved projects are expected to:

• Reduce travel time for freight movement
  
  

• Lower transportation costs across logistics networks
  
  

• Promote a modal shift from road to rail transport
  
  

• Strengthen national supply chains through better integration of transport modes
  
  

These initiatives align with India’s long-term goal of building a sustainable, efficient, and resilient logistics ecosystem under the PM GatiShakti framework. By improving multimodal connectivity and infrastructure efficiency, the NPG’s latest approvals will significantly boost economic competitiveness and ensure seamless freight mobility across key industrial corridors.