Bhubaneswar : In a major move to strengthen Odisha’s transportation network, Odisha railway projects accelerated recently came under review in a high-level meeting chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg. The session included officials from the Department of Commerce and Transport, Eastern Railway General Manager P. Phunkul, Commissioner of Railway Coordination, and Joint Secretary Kaustubh Deepta, along with other senior officers.
The state continues to play a leading role in land acquisition, approvals, and capital investment to develop its railway infrastructure. One of the key projects is the 32-kilometer Puri-Konark railway line, with an investment of ₹492.12 crore. This line will enhance spiritual and tourism connectivity while supporting local products at each station.
In Mayurbhanj district, three major projects—Bangiriposi-Gorumahisani, Badampahad-Kendujharghar, and Budamara-Chakulia—will link northern Odisha with the southern region. This connection will also create a direct route from Betnoti to Rajgangpur. Similarly, the Jaleshwar-Chandaneswar route is planned to boost coastal tourism.
Other strategic projects include new lines in Khordha-Balangir to improve internal connectivity, and the Bargarh-Nuapada road railway link. These lines will connect western and southern Odisha’s rice-producing areas to the market while reducing coal transport costs and pollution between Angul-Talcher and Raipur.
Additionally, projects like Gunupur-Therubali, Junagarh-Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri-Panduragpuram will provide direct access from Rayagada to Vijayawada, facilitating trade and regional integration.
The accelerated development of these railway lines will not only enhance Odisha’s transport infrastructure but also boost tourism, trade, and regional economic growth. Officials emphasized that timely completion and operationalization of these projects are crucial to ensure smoother passenger and freight movement.
With continued focus on modern infrastructure, Odisha railway projects accelerated are set to transform connectivity across the state, linking remote areas to urban centers and promoting sustainable regional development. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Odisha’s journey toward comprehensive transportation and economic growth.
