Sambalpur:27/9(KCN)
The Prime Minister today launched and dedicated to the nation a series of railway projects worth more than ₹1,700 crore, marking a significant stride in enhancing Odisha’s infrastructure and connectivity. These projects aim to improve passenger convenience, strengthen freight operations, and stimulate economic activity across the region.
At the ceremony, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for:
- Rail Flyover between Sambalpur City and Sarla (₹273 crore): This project will remove congestion at Sarla station and ensure uninterrupted movement of trains on the busy Sambalpur–Jharsuguda line, a crucial corridor for coal, mineral, and industrial freight. The initiative will greatly benefit the people of Sambalpur and adjoining areas.
The Prime Minister also dedicated the following projects to the nation:
- Doubling of the Koraput–Baiguda Rail Line (34 km, ₹481 crore): This development will streamline train operations, facilitate the movement of minerals and agricultural produce, and contribute to industrial growth in the resource-rich Koraput region.
- Doubling of the Manabar–Koraput–Gorapur Rail Line (82 km, ₹955 crore): A project of national importance, this will enable faster transport of iron ore from Bailadilla mines to steel plants across India. It will also boost both passenger and freight services in Koraput (Odisha) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) districts.
In addition, the Prime Minister flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express between Brahmapur and Udhna (Surat) from Jharsuguda via video link. *The Amrit Bharat Express represents a new generation of trains designed with affordability, safety, and passenger comfort at its core. Key features include:
- Affordable travel:
Built with cost-effective design innovations, the train offers economical fares, making modern rail travel accessible to people from all sections of society. - Enhanced safety: Equipped with modern safety systems and stronger coach design, ensuring secure journeys for long-distance travelers.
- Passenger-friendly amenities: Comfortable seating, improved interiors, LED lighting, bio-toilets, and better ventilation ensure a convenient and pleasant travel experience for all passengers.
By directly linking Odisha with Gujarat and serving districts across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra, the Amrit Bharat Express will not only provide faster and safer journeys but also foster stronger economic and cultural bonds across eastern, central, and western India.
Together, these initiatives represent a transformative step in Odisha’s rail development. They will reduce travel time, improve safety and punctuality, support industrial expansion, and generate new employment opportunities for farmers, traders, youth, and workers across the state.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that these projects embody the Government of India’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas” and are integral to building a Viksit Bharat and a Viksit Odisha, ensuring that progress and modern infrastructure reach every part of the state.
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