Bhubaneswar: In a boost to rail connectivity in Odisha, the state will soon see the development of new rail lines and the doubling of existing tracks as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Purvodaya” vision. The planned projects include a new rail line between Bargarh Road and Nuapara Road and a double line extension from Sardega (Sundargarh) to Bhalumuda (Chhattisgarh), with a combined estimated cost of ₹4,286 crore.
Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Minister for Commerce and Transport, announced that the new rail line from Bargarh Road to Nuapara Road, spanning 138 kilometers and costing ₹2,926 crore, will significantly reduce the distance between Sambalpur and Raipur by approximately 87 kilometers. This new connection will enhance accessibility to the famous Nrushinghanath temple and support economic activities in Bargarh and Nuapara, the latter being an aspirational district. The rail line will also feature a goods shed at Padampur to facilitate the transportation of rice, cement, steel, and fertilizers, while promoting Sambalpuri handloom and textile products. The project is expected to generate 47 lakh mandays of employment.
Additionally, a new 37-kilometer double line will be constructed between Sardega in Sundargarh district and Bhalumuda in Raigarh district, Chhattisgarh. This project, costing ₹1,360 crore, will enhance connectivity between two important stations in the tribal regions of Sundargarh and Raigarh. With no existing bus service between these areas, the new rail line is anticipated to greatly benefit the local population. This double line project will create 25 lakh mandays of employment.
Minister Jena expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary support and extended thanks to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their contributions. He highlighted the transformative impact these projects will have on regional connectivity, economic development, and employment opportunities in Odisha and neighboring Chhattisgarh.