77th NPG Meeting Under PM GatiShakti Reviews Key Infrastructure Projects for Integrated Development

The meeting focused on evaluating six critical infrastructure projects from various ministries, aligning them with the principles of integrated planning outlined in the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP).

The 77th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) under the PM GatiShakti initiative was held in New Delhi, chaired by Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, Additional Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The meeting focused on evaluating six critical infrastructure projects from various ministries, aligning them with the principles of integrated planning outlined in the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP). These projects, spanning the sectors of railways, road transport, civil aviation, and ports, are expected to significantly impact regional development, connectivity, and economic growth.

1. Hazira – Gothangam New Rail Line, Gujarat:

This greenfield project involves constructing a 36.35 km Broad Gauge (BG) Double Line connecting Gothangam to Hazira. The project is designed to enhance section capacity and improve connectivity to major industries and the Hazira port, a critical cargo hub. By facilitating the efficient movement of bulk and containerized cargo, the project is expected to spur regional economic development, reduce road traffic, and minimize environmental impacts by shifting cargo transport from road to rail.

2. Bilasipara - Guwahati Road, Assam:

This strategic upgrade involves expanding NH-17 to a 4-lane road covering a 44.56 km stretch between Chirakuta (Bilasipara) and Tulungia in Assam. The project aims to enhance regional connectivity, linking Assam with West Bengal, Meghalaya, and crucial infrastructure such as the Multi-Modal Logistics Park at Jogighopa and Rupsi and Guwahati Airports. It is anticipated to boost economic activities, reduce travel time, and alleviate congestion in the region.

3. Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP), Nashik, Maharashtra:

A greenfield project, this development involves the creation of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Nashik, Maharashtra, over 109.97 acres. The park is expected to integrate road and rail transport, improving logistics efficiency, reducing costs, and supporting regional industries. The project includes facilities for cargo consolidation, storage, and customs clearance, with an expected annual cargo handling capacity of 3.11 million metric tons by 2029.

4. Development of New Civil Enclave at Bihta Airport, Patna, Bihar:

This brownfield project involves developing a new civil enclave at Bihta Airfield, 28 km from Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. The project aims to address capacity constraints at Patna Airport and includes constructing a new terminal building with a capacity to handle 5 million passengers annually and a 10-bay apron for A-321 aircraft. This expansion is essential for accommodating growing passenger traffic and enhancing connectivity in the region.

5. Development of New Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri, West Bengal:

Another brownfield project, this initiative involves expanding Bagdogra Airport in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The project includes constructing a new terminal building with a capacity to handle 10 million passengers annually and an apron for 10 aircraft. Bagdogra Airport is strategically located in the "chicken neck" area and serves as a crucial gateway to the North-eastern region, making this expansion vital for meeting the region’s growing connectivity needs.

6. Development of International Container Transshipment Port at Galathea Bay, Andaman & Nicobar:

This transformative greenfield project involves developing an International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay on Great Nicobar Island. With a project cost of Rs. 44,313 crores, the port aims to capitalize on the strategic location and deeper waters of the bay. The port is expected to handle transshipment cargo from Indian ports and neighboring countries, enhancing India’s maritime trade competitiveness and generating substantial economic benefits.

The NPG evaluated all six projects based on the principles of PM GatiShakti, focusing on the integrated development of multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity, intermodal connectivity, and synchronized project implementation. These projects are poised to play pivotal roles in nation-building, improving connectivity, and providing substantial socio-economic benefits, thereby contributing to the overall development of the regions.