The Central Government has allocated ₹9,286 crore to Southern Railway in its latest budget, slightly increasing the previous interim budget allocation of ₹9,048 crore. However, the funding for new double-track projects has been reduced, raising concerns about the progress of these initiatives.
The Railway Board released a detailed allocation list through the “Pink Book” yesterday, specifying the distribution of funds for various projects. Notably, ₹301 crore has been allotted for new line projects, ₹478 crore for broad gauge projects, ₹1,928 crore for double track projects, ₹1,755 crore for track renewals, ₹156 crore for electrification work, ₹534 crore for tunnel and bridge work, and ₹511 crore for signaling and technology upgrades.
In contrast, the previous interim budget allocated ₹976 crore for new line projects and ₹2,214 crore for double track projects. The significant reduction in funding for these projects is expected to delay their progress.
The new railway line projects, including Sriperumbudur-Irungattukottai-Kuduvancheri, Tindivanam-Tiruvannamalai, Athipattu-Puttur, Erode-Palani, and Chennai-Cuddalore-Puducherry, have each been allocated only ₹1,000. This minimal allocation could lead to a halt in the progress of these crucial projects.
Commenting on the situation, Southern Railway officials stated that although the funding for new and double track projects has been reduced, there is an increase in funding for broad gauge and electrification projects. The additional overall budget allocation of ₹9,286 crore will ensure that ongoing projects are completed without delay, despite the challenges faced by the new initiatives.
Southern Railway serves parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, and the current budget is expected to impact infrastructure development in these regions. The reduction in funding for new projects is likely to be a significant setback, with concerns about delays and stalling of critical railway lines that are essential for regional connectivity and development.