Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday undertook a 170-km train journey from Bhubaneswar to Brahmapur in Ganjam district on the second day of her three-day visit to Odisha.
Accompanied by Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the President boarded the “President’s Special” from Bhubaneswar station. The ultra-luxury private rail car is equipped with air-conditioned bedrooms, a living-cum-dining room and a kitchen.
Officials said the train journey was scheduled keeping in view the IMD forecast of rain. The special saloon coach departed with full security cover and was scheduled to reach Brahmapur station at 11:10 AM.High-level security along the route
Two trains escorted the President’s train — one in the front and one at the rear. No other train was permitted on the tracks during the movement, officials said. Both Bhubaneswar and Brahmapur railway stations were placed under tight security. Bomb disposal squads, sniffer dogs and intensive baggage screening were deployed. Personnel from the Government Railway Police, Railway Protection Force and commandos from central agencies were on board. Around 15 platoons of police were deployed at Bhubaneswar station, with similar arrangements made at Brahmapur.
After arriving in Brahmapur, President Murmu is scheduled to visit the Maa Kandhuni Devi shrine near the Taptapani hot spring in Sanakhemundi block to offer prayers.
Ganjam Collector V. Keerthi Vasan said the venues of the President’s visit in the district have been declared “no-flying” zones. Taptapani, known for its natural hot springs and forested surroundings, is a popular tourist destination in south Odisha.
President Murmu arrived in Odisha on Monday for the three-day visit.
