Rail connectivity in Odisha and Jharkhand is set for a major upgrade. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved two multitracking projects from the Railway Ministry, covering four districts across the two states and promising a significant jump in rail capacity along this stretch.
The two projects that got the green light
The first approved project is the doubling of the Paradip-Haridaspur line, adding a second track alongside the existing one. The second is the construction of a fourth line between Rajkharsawan and Dangoaposi. Together, the two projects carry an estimated cost of Rs 3907 crore and are expected to be completed by 2030-31.
Network to grow by 145 kilometres
Once complete, these projects will expand the rail network on this route by around 145 kilometres. The additional line capacity is meant to improve mobility and boost the overall capacity of Indian Railways. The entire multitracking plan has been designed specifically to make train operations smoother and reduce congestion on this corridor.
Better lives for 1526 villages
This is not just about laying more track. The improved connectivity from this multitracking project is expected to benefit roughly 1526 villages spread across Odisha and Jharkhand. Together, these villages are home to a population of around 14 lakh people, meaning the daily commute for lakhs of residents should become considerably easier once the work is done.
A boost for tourism and mineral transport too
The added rail capacity is also expected to improve access to some well known tourist destinations, including the Lalitgiri Buddhist Complex, the Baldevjew Temple, and the Meghahatuburu Hills. Beyond tourism, this belt is rich in minerals, and the multitracking route is expected to serve as a crucial corridor for transporting coal, iron ore, limestone and gypsum.
