Major Milestone Achieved in Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project with Tunnel Breakthrough

Bhubaneswar The ambitious Khurda Road-Balangir New Rail Line Project achieved a significant milestone today with the successful breakthrough of Tunnel No T3, located between Buguda and Banigochha in Nayagarh district. Spanning 2,620 meters and featuring a 2-degree curve, this tunnel is the longest in Nayagarh district and the second longest in the entire project. The breakthrough, also known as “daylighting,” was accomplished using the advanced New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), marking a critical step in the construction of this crucial railway line.

The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project, stretching 301 kilometers, is poised to enhance connectivity between the eastern and western parts of Odisha, significantly improving transportation and economic opportunities in the region. Tunnel No T3’s completion underscores the project’s progress and sets the stage for further advancements in linking Odisha’s diverse terrains.

The rail line project traverses the rugged Eastern Ghats, presenting significant engineering and logistical challenges, especially in the construction of tunnels. The project includes seven tunnels, totaling 12.76 kilometers in length, situated along a 75-kilometer stretch between Daspalla and Purunakatak. Advanced technologies and machinery have been deployed to overcome geological complexities, varying soil densities, and curved alignments.

Key achievements include:

• Longest Tunnel: A 4.885-kilometer tunnel near Adhenigarh, complete with a 700-meter escape tunnel for safety.
• Tunnel Progress: Four out of seven tunnel breakthroughs, including Tunnels No 1, 3, and 7, have been completed.
• Simultaneous Excavations: Operations carried out from both ends to expedite progress.

The construction process has addressed several challenges, including:

• Geological Variability: Tackling complex rock formations and soil densities.
• Environmental Sensitivity: Ensuring minimal impact on wildlife sanctuaries.
• Precision in Curved Tunnels: Managing curved alignments in five of the seven tunnels.

The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line has already seen the completion of 215 kilometers, comprising 105.8 kilometers from Khurda Road to Daspalla and 109 kilometers from Balangir to Purunakatak. Work on the remaining sections, including the stretch from Purunakatak to Adhenigarh, is progressing rapidly.

Upon completion, this rail line is expected to:

• Reduce travel time between Bhubaneswar and Balangir.
• Improve access to education, healthcare, and markets.
• Boost regional trade and economic development.

The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project is a flagship initiative of Indian Railways, designed to transform connectivity and economic prospects in Odisha. With continued progress, the project promises to be a game-changer for the region, benefiting both passenger and freight transport.