Overview The 102nd meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG) convened to evaluate infrastructure projects related to Road, Transport & Highways, aligning with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP) . The focus was on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency. Key Developments Project Evaluations The NPG evaluated 3 projects : 1 Road/Highway project from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) 2 Rail projects from the Ministry of Railways (MoR) These projects were assessed based on their conformity to the PM GatiShakti principles, including integrated multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity, and a ‘Whole of Government’ approach. Ministry of Railways (MoR) Projects 3rd and 4th Line between PUNARAKH to KIUL station (Bihar) The Ministry of Railways proposed the construction of a Third and Fourth Railway Line between Punarakh and Kiul stations in Bihar, spanning approximately 49.57 kilometers . This section traverses the Patna and Lakhisarai districts . This corridor is strategically and economically important, enhancing rail capacity and logistical efficiency for major industrial establishments such as: Ultratech Cement Plant ACC Cement (Warsaliganj) NTPC Barauni NTPC Super Thermal Power Plant (Barh) Carriage Repair Workshop (Harnaut) SJVN Power Plant (Chausa) It will also benefit numerous small and medium-scale industries in automobile, marble, stone, food processing, petroleum, and textile production across Fatuha, Patna–Patliputra, Mokama, Barhiya, and Lakhisarai . The project is expected to catalyze economic and social development by providing faster, safer, and seamless rail connectivity within Bihar and to other parts of the country. Enhanced accessibility will particularly benefit regional hubs such as Patna, Fatuha, Bakhtiyarpur, and Mokama . Additionally, the proposed railway line will improve connectivity to several important tourist destinations including Bapu Tower, Mahavir Mandir, Gandhi Sangrahalaya, Khuda Baksh Library, Kumhrar Park, Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, Gol Ghar, and Bihar Museum . New BG Line from Silghat (Silghat Town) – Dekargaon (Tezpur) (Assam) The Ministry of Railways has proposed the construction of a new railway line between Silghat and Dekargaon , covering approximately 27.50 kilometers , linking stations on opposite banks of the Brahmaputra river in Assam. The alignment is near National Highways NH-15 and NH-715 . This development aims to enhance regional connectivity and promote multimodal transportation by creating synergy between highway and railway networks. This integration will ensure seamless movement of passengers and freight. Designed as a capacity augmentation project, the proposed line will strengthen existing rail infrastructure between Dekargaon and New Silghat stations , accommodating growing freight and passenger traffic. In the long term, the project is expected to catalyze economic growth and regional development, fostering industrial activity, trade, and tourism in Assam and neighboring areas. Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways (MoRTH) Project Construction of 4 lane elevated corridor including approaches from Old Pune Naka to Boramani Naka on NH-65 (Maharashtra) The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed the construction of a four-lane elevated corridor from Old Pune Naka to Boramani Naka on National Highway (NH)-65 in Solapur, Maharashtra , spanning approximately 9.66 kilometers . The project, part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana (Phase-I) , includes approach ramps and service roads to enhance traffic flow and overall connectivity. The corridor will provide a dedicated, congestion-free route, easing city traffic, reducing travel time, and enhancing road safety, while also contributing to lower vehicular emissions. The proposed elevated corridor will play a pivotal role in strengthening regional connectivity, boosting economic activity, and supporting religious and cultural tourism in Solapur. UPSC Relevance These infrastructure projects are highly relevant for the UPSC exam, particularly for GS Paper 3 (Infrastructure, Economic Development) . They highlight the government's focus on improving connectivity and logistics efficiency through initiatives like PM GatiShakti and Bharatmala Pariyojana . Understanding the details of these projects, their objectives, and potential impacts is crucial for answering mains questions related to infrastructure development and economic growth.