Rly Ministry Sanctions Rail Infra Projects To Boost Connectivity In South Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned several key railway infrastructure projects in South Odisha, aimed at enhancing the region’s transportation networks, reducing logistical costs and driving economic growth, the ECoR informed in a release on Friday.

These include doubling of the Naupada-Gunupur-Theruvali Rail Line, alongside the 250-km-long Gopalpur-Rayagada New Rail Line. “These initiatives are designed to enhance connectivity between previously remote regions of Odisha, enabling smoother transportation of goods and services,” it said.

The release further informed that ₹9.65 crore was sanctioned for Final Location Survey (FLS) for these two projects on February 11.

These apart, Gunupur-Theruvali New Line (73.62 km) was sanctioned on August 21, 2024. This ₹1,326 crore project will link Gunupur and Theruvali, significantly benefiting Rayagada district. The project is set to be completed in five years, with a land acquisition of 473.78 hectare, provided by the Odisha government, it said

“The Gopalpur-Rayagada New Rail Line and Gunupur-Theruvali Rail Line Projects will bring immense economic benefits by improving transportation efficiency and reducing logistical costs in the southern part of the state. The new rail line will facilitate the smooth movement of essential commodities, including agricultural products and minerals. This is expected to lower the cost of transportation, enhance supply chain efficiencies and contribute to India’s national goals of reducing carbon emissions by promoting sustainable, energy-efficient transportation,” it added.

The ECoR also informed about development of seven new stations in the Gunupur-Theruvali New Rail Line Project, which will improve access to key areas, including the aspirational Rayagada district. “The Gunupur-Theruvali New Rail Line Project is an essential part of the Energy, Mineral, and Cement Corridors under Indian Railways, designed to further integrate regional and national economies and drive inclusive growth across the country.”

The construction phase of these projects is expected to generate substantial direct employment, providing a significant boost to the local economy, it said.

The projects align with the government’s broader vision of enhancing Odisha’s railway connectivity, providing essential infrastructure to support the region’s growing economic needs, it added.