Centre Approves Guntakal–Ballari Rail Expansion, CM Chandrababu Thanks PM Modi

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Union Cabinet approved the construction of the third and fourth railway lines between Guntakal in Andhra Pradesh and Ballari in Karnataka.

Sharing his reaction on X on Saturday, the Chief Minister described the approval as a significant step toward strengthening railway infrastructure and boosting regional connectivity.

The railway expansion project, estimated to cost ₹1,264 crore, will see nearly ₹600 crore invested within Andhra Pradesh, according to the Chief Minister. He said the additional rail lines would enhance the East–West railway corridor, improving connectivity between Rayalaseema, North Karnataka, and Goa.

Naidu noted that the project would ease congestion on the existing railway route, allowing both passenger and freight trains to operate more efficiently. The enhanced rail network is also expected to improve connectivity to Krishnapatnam Port and the upcoming Ramayapatnam Port, strengthening logistics and supporting the movement of goods.

The Chief Minister said the improved transport infrastructure would accelerate industrial development and create fresh economic opportunities for lakhs of people across Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Better rail connectivity, he added, would contribute to regional growth by facilitating trade, investment, and employment.

Thanking the Union Government for its continued support to the state's development, Chandrababu Naidu said the approval reflects the Centre's commitment to strengthening infrastructure and driving long-term economic progress in the region.