Odisha has fast-tracked a series of transformative railway projects aimed at strengthening tourism, tribal connectivity, and industrial growth.
In a high-level review chaired by Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg, senior officials from the Commerce & Transport Department, East Coast Railway, Forest Department, and Tourism joined forces to assess progress and clear bottlenecks.
Among the flagship initiatives is the ₹492.12 crore Puri–Konark rail line, a 32 km corridor linking the iconic Jagannath and Sun Temples. With four stations and infrastructure for special events, the project is expected to generate 11 lakh man-days and uplift local economies through the One Station One Product scheme.
In Mayurbhanj, three new lines—Bangriposi–Gorumahisani, Badampahar–Kendujhargarh, and Buramara–Chakulia—will connect North Odisha to the western region, while the Jaleswar–Chandaneswar route aims to promote coastal tourism. The KBK region will benefit from Gunupur–Therubali, Junagarh–Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri–Pandurangapuram lines, improving access to Raipur, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad, and supporting agro-industries and tribal eco-tourism.
Other critical projects include the Khurda Road–Balangir and Bargarh Road–Nawapara Road lines, which will enhance market access for rice-producing zones and reduce coal logistics costs and pollution.
Officials stressed the importance of timely land acquisition, sustainable planning, and integrating tourism with logistics. Odisha’s proactive approach positions it as a key player in India’s rail infrastructure and economic development.
