PM Launches ₹1,700 Crore Railway Projects in Odisha, Flags Off Amrit Bharat Express to Gujarat
PM To Unveil Railway Projects Worth ₹1,700 Crore In Odisha: In a landmark step towards bolstering Odisha’s railway infrastructure and connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and dedicate three major railway projects worth over ₹1,700 crore. These projects aim to improve rail transportation, enhance passenger amenities, and unlock new economic opportunities in the state.
The Prime Minister will also flag off the Amrit Bharat Express between Berhampur (Odisha) and Udhana (Surat, Gujarat), establishing a vital rail link between eastern and western India.
Major Projects Announced:
Foundation Stone Laid for Sambalpur-Sarla Railway Flyover (₹273 crore)
This crucial flyover will resolve long-standing congestion at Sarla station and ensure seamless rail movement on the Sambalpur–Jharsuguda section — a critical corridor for transporting coal, minerals, and industrial goods.
Doubling Projects Dedicated to the Nation:
- Koraput–Baiguda Line Doubling (34 km, ₹481 crore):
Strengthens rail connectivity in Odisha’s hilly Koraput region. Enhances the movement of minerals and agricultural produce, giving a boost to regional industrial growth. - Manabar–Koraput–Gorapur Line Doubling (82 km, ₹955 crore):
A key project that facilitates quicker transport of iron ore from Bailadila mines to steel plants across India. The line serves both Odisha’s Koraput district and Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam district, significantly enhancing passenger and freight capacities.
New Train Service: Amrit Bharat Express (Berhampur–Udhana)
The Prime Minister will flag off the Amrit Bharat Express, connecting Berhampur in Odisha with Udhana in Gujarat. The train promises faster and more comfortable travel while strengthening economic and cultural ties across eastern, central, and western India.
States and Districts Benefited:
- Odisha: Ganjam, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Balangir, Nuapada
- Andhra Pradesh: Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Manyam
- Chhattisgarh: Mahasamund, Raipur, Durg
- Maharashtra: Gondia, Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Akola, Buldhana, Jalgaon, Dhule, Nandurbar
- Gujarat: Tapi, Surat
Significance of the Launch
These initiatives mark a turning point in Odisha’s rail development, with far-reaching benefits:
- Reduced travel time and improved safety
- Boost in freight and passenger efficiency
- Enhanced regional industrial connectivity
- Job creation and support for local economies, especially for farmers, youth, and workers
This rollout is part of the government’s broader vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”, reflecting a commitment to inclusive development and infrastructure expansion across all regions.
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