Railway Connectivity to Boost Access to Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The pristine wilderness of Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district will get rail connectivity as the proposed Jajpur Road-Dhamra railway line charts its course through the heart of this natural haven.

Traversing key stations like Chhotaraipur, Rampur Segadi, Bahabalpur, Jajpur Town, Jaleswarpur, Saipura, Mangalpur, Aradi, Chandabali, and Bhitarkanika, the 95-km railway line project is in the final stages of its location survey. The survey, with a sanctioned cost of Rs 2.4 crore, is expected to conclude by March, with the subsequent submission of the report for approval in April.

Originally sanctioned in 2012-13, the project has gained momentum after being prioritized by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Once approved, the detailed project report and final approvals will follow suit, paving the way for enhanced rail connectivity.

Anticipated to trim the distance between Jajpur Road and Dhamra by 13 km, the railway line project is poised to benefit approximately 30 lakh residents across three districts. Importantly, it will serve as a vital link to provide rail access to Bhitarkanika, making the national park more accessible for tourists and nature enthusiasts.

As the railway network integrates with the serene landscape of Bhitarkanika, it is expected to elevate the park’s status as a prominent attraction, inviting exploration by travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Odisha.