109th NPG meeting evaluates key infrastructure projects under PM GatiShakti
The 109th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) under the PM GatiShakti framework reviewed four major infrastructure projects spanning railways, urban transport and aviation, with a focus on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency across regions.
The meeting, held at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), evaluated two railway projects, one metro extension and one greenfield airport proposal for alignment with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP). The projects were assessed on principles of integrated multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity to economic and social hubs, and the ‘whole-of-government’ approach.
Among the key proposals was a third railway line between Jalandhar Cantt and Jammu Tawi, spanning 210.75 km across Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. The project will cover 27 stations and pass through districts including Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kangra, Pathankot, Kathua and Samba.
The proposed line is expected to significantly enhance rail capacity along this strategically critical corridor. Apart from improving passenger and freight movement, it is seen as vital for national security by enabling faster transport of defence personnel and equipment to border areas. The project is also expected to boost trade by facilitating smoother movement of agricultural produce, construction materials and essential goods.
The NPG also evaluated a 518.53 km third rail line between Manikpur and Itarsi, covering parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The alignment traverses key districts such as Chitrakoot, Satna, Maihar, Katni, Jabalpur, Narsinghpur and Narmadapuram, forming a crucial link between northern and central India.
The additional line is expected to decongest one of the region’s busiest rail corridors, improve operational efficiency, and support growing passenger and freight demand. By strengthening connectivity to industrial hubs, goods sheds and tourist destinations, the project aims to bolster regional economic growth and improve transport reliability.
Greenfield Airport in Assam
The NPG reviewed the proposal for a Greenfield Airport at Doloo in Silchar, Assam, to be developed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Strategically located near National Highway 27, the airport is intended to address rising air travel demand and capacity constraints at the existing civil enclave.
Once operational, the airport is expected to serve as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Cachar district and neighbouring areas. Improved air connectivity is likely to spur trade, tourism and business activity while generating growth in allied sectors such as logistics, hospitality and urban infrastructure.
Surat Metro Extension to HSR Corridor
In the urban transport sector, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs proposed a 4.4 km elevated extension of Surat Metro Corridor II (Phase I) from Saroli to the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (HSR) corridor in Gujarat. The extension will include three stations, with provisions for two additional stations in the future.
The project is designed to provide seamless last-mile connectivity to the Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR corridor, enhancing integration between metro and high-speed rail networks. Plans include direct metro-HSR linkages, feeder bus services and non-motorised transport infrastructure to improve passenger convenience and promote sustainable mobility.
Focus on Multimodal Integration
The Network Planning Group emphasised that the evaluated projects are aligned with the core objectives of PM GatiShakti – improving logistics efficiency, reducing travel time and cost, and delivering socio-economic benefits to surrounding catchment areas.
By integrating rail, metro and aviation infrastructure with broader economic and social nodes, the initiatives are expected to strengthen connectivity, enhance resilience of transport networks and accelerate regional development across multiple states.
