Key Tunnel Breakthrough Marks Major Progress in Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Link Project

Bhubaneswar: The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Link Project (301 km) has reached a significant milestone with the breakthrough of a 700-meter-long escape tunnel within the 4,185-meter-long main tunnel in the Adhenigarh-Charichhak section, located under the deep reserve forest of the Madhapur Forest Range in Boudh District. This achievement was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Engineering Team from the East Coast Railway (ECoR) Construction wing.

Of the total 301 kilometers, 152.805 kilometers have been commissioned so far. The project is being constructed from both ends—Khurda Road and Balangir—to expedite its completion. To date, 105.8 kilometers from Khurda Road to Daspalla and 47 kilometers from Balangir to Sonepur have been completed. Additionally, the 28.765-kilometer stretch from Sonepur to Jharmunda has also been finished. The segment from Sonepur to Purunakatak, covering approximately 73 kilometers, is expected to be completed within the next few months.

The Khurda Road-Balangir project is a public-centric initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity in remote areas. It is closely monitored by the Ministry of Railways to ensure adherence to the targeted timeline. Recognizing the importance of timely completion, the Railways is making concerted efforts by simultaneously constructing from both ends of the project.