Bhubaneswar: In a big push to Odisha’s rail infrastructure and industrial logistics, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved two major multitracking projects in the state with a combined investment of ₹5,104 crore. These include the Sambalpur–Jarapda (3rd and 4th line) and Jharsuguda–Sason (3rd and 4th line) railway corridors, which together will add 364 kilometers of track to the Indian Railways network in Odisha.
The projects are part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to increase line capacity along critical freight corridors, particularly in mineral-rich states like Odisha, and are aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity.
Focus on Seamless Movement and Industrial Growth
The Sambalpur–Jarapda multitracking project, approved at a cost of ₹3,917 crore, will cover 277 kilometers. This section falls in the Talcher–Angul–Sambalpur belt, a region vital to coal transportation and energy production. The additional lines will not only improve freight capacity but also make room for more passenger and express trains.
The Jharsuguda–Sason project, spanning 87 kilometers, has been cleared at a cost of ₹1,187 crore. This stretch forms a critical part of the Howrah–Mumbai freight corridor and is expected to improve the speed and efficiency of both cargo and passenger movement across western Odisha.
Together, these projects are set to strengthen Odisha’s industrial logistics network, particularly for sectors like coal, iron ore, steel, cement, and fertilisers, all of which are central to the state’s economy.
Key Benefits for Odisha
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Enhanced freight capacity in major industrial zones, reducing delays and improving turnaround time.
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Employment generation of around 104 lakh human-days during the construction phase.
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Improved passenger services with the possibility of more trains and better punctuality.
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Strengthened connectivity for major districts such as Angul, Sambalpur, and Jharsuguda.
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Boost to local economies and encouragement for small and medium enterprises through better transport infrastructure.
These railway infrastructure upgrades are expected to bring long-term economic benefits to the region, attract new investments, and support the establishment of new industrial hubs. They also offer Odisha an opportunity to become a logistics backbone for eastern India.
