The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the construction of Varanasi-Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) multitracking with a total estimated cost of Rs 2,642 crore (approx.).

The proposed project of Ministry of Railways will ease operations and reduce congestion, as it traverses through Varanasi and Chandauli districts in Uttar Pradesh. It will increase the existing network of Indian Railways by about 30 km. 

For the required infrastructure upgradation, a new rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga river and the addition of third and fourth railway lines between Varanasi and the DDU Junction route will be carried out. These enhancements aim to improve capacity, efficiency and support the region’s socio-economic growth.

The route is vital for both passenger and freight traffic, as well as for serving growing tourism and industrial requirements. Apart from providing relief from congestion in the stretch, 27.83 MTPA freight is anticipated on the proposed stretch. 

The project is a result of PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity and will provide seamless connectivity for movement of people, goods and services.