The Queensland State Government of Australia on Thursday said it has cleared the Galilee Basin rail line project to be executed by the Adani Group.
The approval follows the Australian Federal Government’s recent decision to give environmental approval to Adani Mining’s $16.5-billion Carmichael coal mine and rail infrastructure project.
Welcoming the decision, the Australian High Commissioner to India, Patrick Suckling, said the 300-km rail line would be a key link connecting the proposed Adani Mining’s Carmichael coal mine west of Moranbah to the port of Abbot Point.
“This is an important decision as it will enable the State to tap its rich resources’ potential. These decisions signal that Australia welcomes investments and is open for business,” he added.
The project will drive economic growth in the State, create additional jobs and develop the region through boosting export of coal. It will help in India’s development by providing electricity to an estimated 100 million Indians, he added.
The proposed standard gauge green field rail line will cost $2.2 billion and will be able to transport 100 million tonnes of coal a year.
“The decision also shows that comprehensive, robust and timely assessments can be undertaken on Australian resources projects, Suckling added.