Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to receive a major boost to its railway infrastructure after the Central Government approved three important railway line projects aimed at expanding rail capacity, improving connectivity and supporting the movement of passengers and freight across key parts of the state.
The projects include the construction of third and fourth railway lines between Cuttack and Paradip, a fourth line between Bhadrak and Haridaspur, and another fourth line between Kharagpur and Bhadrak (Ranitāl).
Together, the three projects involve an estimated investment of around Rs 7,221 crore and are expected to strengthen railway infrastructure along strategically important routes.
Cuttack-Paradip to Get Third and Fourth Railway Lines
One of the key approvals is for the construction of third and fourth railway lines between Cuttack and Paradip.
The proposed project will cover approximately 72 kilometres and has been estimated to cost Rs 2,286 crore.
The additional tracks are expected to increase the carrying capacity of the route and facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains.
The project is particularly significant for Paradip, which is one of Odisha’s most important industrial and port regions. The expansion of rail infrastructure on this corridor could help improve the movement of goods to and from the port and support the wider industrial ecosystem.
Bhadrak-Haridaspur Fourth Line Approved
The Centre has also cleared the construction of a fourth railway line between Bhadrak and Haridaspur.
The proposed line will cover around 75 kilometres, with an estimated project cost of Rs 1,583 crore.
The additional railway capacity is expected to help ease pressure on the existing network and improve the efficiency of train operations along the corridor.
With growing passenger and freight movement, the expansion is expected to strengthen the connectivity of several important areas linked to the Bhadrak-Haridaspur route.
Kharagpur-Bhadrak Corridor to Receive Major Expansion
Another major project approved by the Centre is the construction of a fourth railway line between Kharagpur and Bhadrak (Ranitāl).
The project will cover approximately 173 kilometres and has an estimated cost of Rs 3,352 crore.
The Kharagpur-Bhadrak corridor is strategically important for railway movement between Odisha and eastern India. Increasing the number of tracks is expected to provide greater flexibility for train operations and improve the movement of freight along the busy route.
Rail Capacity to Support Odisha’s Industrial Growth
The three projects collectively represent a significant investment in Odisha’s railway network. By adding new tracks to existing corridors, the projects are expected to improve line capacity and reduce operational constraints.
The expanded network could also facilitate faster and more efficient transportation of industrial goods, raw materials and other freight, particularly along routes connected to major ports and industrial centres.
For Odisha, which has a large industrial and mineral-based economy, stronger railway connectivity is crucial for supporting economic activity and improving access to national markets.
The projects are therefore expected to have benefits beyond passenger transportation, strengthening logistics infrastructure and supporting the state’s broader industrial development.
Three Projects to Strengthen Strategic Rail Corridors
The approval of the Cuttack-Paradip, Bhadrak-Haridaspur and Kharagpur-Bhadrak line projects marks another major step towards expanding Odisha’s railway infrastructure.
Once completed, the additional tracks are expected to enhance operational efficiency, improve freight movement and provide greater capacity for future passenger services.
The combined investment of more than Rs 7,200 crore is also expected to contribute to Odisha’s long-term connectivity and economic growth, particularly along strategically important industrial and port-linked railway corridors.
