Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s rail network received a major boost with the launch of the Puri-Koraput Express, a new direct train service connecting the state’s spiritual capital, Puri, with the tribal heartland of Koraput. The train is expected to significantly improve connectivity for pilgrims, tourists, students, patients, traders and daily commuters travelling between coastal and southern Odisha.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the inaugural service from Bhubaneswar Railway Station on Monday. Operated by the East Coast Railway (ECoR), the new express train fulfils a long-pending demand for direct rail connectivity between the two important destinations.
The service is expected to enhance access to several religious centres, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and commercial hubs while reducing travel inconvenience for thousands of passengers.
Puri-Koraput Express Train Numbers
The newly introduced service will operate as:
- 18407 – Puri to Koraput Express
- 18408 – Koraput to Puri Express
The Railway Board approved the introduction of the train on May 13, 2026, with the objective of strengthening intra-state rail connectivity and providing a seamless link between Odisha’s coastal belt and its southern districts.
Puri-Koraput Express Route
The train will run via several important railway junctions across Odisha, covering:
Puri – Khurda Road – Bhubaneswar – Angul – Sambalpur – Bargarh Road – Balangir – Titlagarh – Kesinga – Muniguda – Rayagada – Kakiriguma – Damanjodi – Koraput
The route connects major districts across central, western and southern Odisha, offering improved travel options for passengers.
Station Stops
During its journey, the train will halt at the following stations:
- Puri
- Khurda Road
- Bhubaneswar
- Naraj
- Marthapur
- Dhenkanal
- Talcher Road
- Angul
- Boinda
- Rairakhol
- Sambalpur
- Bargarh Road
- Balangir
- Titlagarh
- Kesinga
- Muniguda
- Rayagada
- Tikiri
- Laxmipur Road
- Kakiriguma
- Damanjodi
- Koraput
Running Days
The Puri-Koraput Express will operate three days a week.
From Puri: Monday, Thursday and Saturday
From Koraput: Tuesday, Friday and Sunday
Timings
Train No. 18407 (Puri–Koraput)
- Departure from Puri: 7:00 AM
- Arrival at Koraput: 11:30 PM
Train No. 18408 (Koraput–Puri)
- Departure from Koraput: 5:00 AM
- Arrival at Puri: 10:20 PM
Boost to Odisha Rail Connectivity
The introduction of the Puri-Koraput Express is expected to improve mobility across Odisha by providing a direct rail link between two culturally and geographically significant regions. The train will particularly benefit devotees travelling to Jagannath Temple in Puri, students, business travellers, patients seeking medical care and tourists exploring southern Odisha’s scenic destinations.
Railway officials believe the new service will not only improve passenger convenience but also contribute to regional economic growth by enhancing connectivity across multiple districts.
