Bhubaneswar: “In the last 10 years, 1826 kilometres of Rail Line has been constructed in Odisha, which is more than the total Rail Network in Srilanka”, said Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw while conducting a review meeting on Sunday.
Vaishnaw conducted a thorough assessment of ongoing projects in the region particularly within the jurisdiction of the East Coast Railway (ECoR). The review session underscored significant advancements and challenges, underscoring the critical need for infrastructure enhancement.
The meeting was attended by ECoR General Manager Parmeshwar Funkwal, all Principal Heads of Departments of ECoR, Senior Officials from ECoR Headquarters, Divisional Railway Manager of Khurda Road, H.S. Bajwa and Branch Officers from the Khurda Road Division.
In the meeting, Vaishnaw stressed the identification and resolution of problem areas in ongoing projects.
To expedite the early completion of the Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line, tunnels spanning approximately seven kilometres will be constructed simultaneously from both ends. Steps will also be taken to connect the national highway along this route to the main tunnel. Additionally, construction efforts for the Talcher-Bimalagarh New Line will proceed concurrently from both the Talcher and Bimalagarh sides.
The Railway Ministry will conduct a review meeting with the office of the Chief Minister of Odisha soon to short out the issues and early completion of ongoing Railway projects in the State.
“Special focus to be given to the redevelopment of Amrit Stations. Review for ongoing construction works of Amrit Stations will be done shortly next time,” added Vaishnaw.
“Honourable Prime Minister has given Special focus to Odisha and sanctioned 10,536 crores for infrastructural development of Railways, an all-time-high budgetary provision. Various steps have been taken to connect all districts of Odisha to the Railway Network”. Vaishnaw said.
Adding more Vaishnaw said, “ECoR has been a target for construction of 500 kms of rail line in the current financial year. In the last fiscal, 450 km of rail line was achieved by ECoR. Priority has been given for expansion of rail lines, underlining its importance for economic growth and connectivity”.
Union Minister Vaishnaw’s review emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to expediting railway development in Odisha, ensuring efficient project execution, and improving the quality of railway services. The directives from the Railway Minister, are aimed at advancing infrastructure growth and achieving operational excellence in the ECoR region.
