Bhubaneswar: The Khurda Road-Bolangir Rail Line Project, a pivotal infrastructure initiative under Indian Railways, is progressing with speed despite facing significant challenges, especially in the construction of tunnels. These tunnels, which form a critical part of the project, present some of the most daunting engineering challenges ever encountered in railway construction.
This project, a critical public-centric initiative of Railways, continues to advance, achieving significant milestones despite the formidable challenges posed by the construction of tunnels in rugged terrain. Spanning a total length of 301 km, this project is vital for enhancing connectivity in remote regions, and it is under constant scrutiny from the Ministry of Railways to ensure timely completion.
Tunnel Construction: The Heart of the Project’s Challenges
As the project traverses through the rugged and forested terrains between Daspalla and Purunakatak, the construction of seven tunnels (a total of 12.76 km) within a 75-km stretch has emerged as the most complex and technically demanding aspect of this entire endeavour. These tunnels are not just about creating passages through mountains; they represent the overcoming of extraordinary obstacles posed by nature and geography. The breakthrough of the 1.795-km-long tunnel (Number 7) was done on August 20. On the very next day, another breakthrough of the tunnel (Tunnel Number-1) was conducted successfully.
Seven tunnels are under construction, all located between Daspalla and Purunakatak. Four major tunnels are in the Boudh district between Adhenigarh and Purunakatak, including the project’s longest tunnel that spans 4.185 km and features a 700-meter escape tunnel for safety.
Three tunnels in Nayagarh district, with two located between Daspalla and Buguda.
Tunnel breakthrough work has been completed in four tunnels, marking a major progress milestone.
To expedite the project, tunnel construction is being conducted simultaneously from both ends. This approach is crucial for adhering to tight timelines but requires meticulous coordination and resource management.
Despite these challenges, the project has achieved significant milestones, with tunnel breakthroughs completed in four of the seven tunnels. These achievements are a testament to the dedication and expertise of the engineering teams working on the project.
To accelerate progress, the construction of the tunnels is being carried out simultaneously from both ends. This dual-front approach is crucial for meeting the ambitious timelines set for the project.
The Khurda Road-Bolangir Rail Line, stretching 301 kilometres, is crucial for improving connectivity in remote regions. Of the total length, 199 kilometres have been completed, including 105.8 kilometres from Khurda Road to Daspalla and 93 km from Bolangir to Boudh. The remaining segment from Boudh to Purunakatak is on track for completion within the next few months.
The successful construction of these tunnels will not only mark a major milestone for the Khurda Road-Bolangir Rail Line Project but also underscore Railways’ capability to overcome unprecedented engineering challenges and deliver critical infrastructure to remote areas. The completion of the tunnel works will mark a significant achievement in the project, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and economic development in the region.
