Odisha to Get Over ₹10,000 Crore for Railway Projects in Record Budget Allocation

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Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to witness a significant boost in its railway infrastructure with the Central Government announcing a record allocation of ₹10,856 crore in the current financial year's budget. This marks the highest-ever allocation for railway development in the state and is expected to bring about transformative changes, particularly in the state's tribal-dominated regions. 

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central Cabinet has approved a total of eight railway projects, six of which will be implemented in Odisha. The state has always had a rich history with railways, but this is the first time that such a large investment, over ₹15,000 crore, has been earmarked for developing its railway network. 

Major Railway Projects to Transform Odisha 

The six railway projects approved for Odisha include the following: 

1. Gunupur-Therubali Railway Line: This new railway line, with an allocation of ₹1,326 crore, will connect Gunupur to Therubali, easing travel and improving connectivity in the region. 
2. Junagarh-Nabarangpur Railway Project: ₹3,274 crore has been allocated for this new railway line, which will play a crucial role in connecting the remote areas of Junagarh and Nabarangpur. 
3. Malkangiri-Bhadrachalam-Pandurangapuram Railway Line: This project, with an investment of ₹4,109 crore, will enhance connectivity in the southern part of the state, linking Malkangiri to Bhadrachalam and Pandurangapuram. 
4. Badampahar-Kendujhargarh Railway Line: The new railway line, costing ₹2,107 crore, will improve access to the mineral-rich areas of Badampahar and Kendujhargarh. 
5. Bangiriposi-Gorumahisani Railway Line: With a budget of ₹2,549 crore, this railway line will connect Bangiriposi to Gorumahisani, further boosting regional connectivity. 
6. Buramara-Chakulia Railway Line: This project, with an allocation of ₹1,639 crore, will establish a new railway link between Buramara and Chakulia, benefiting both regions. 

Impact on Tribal Regions and Local Development 

These projects are expected to have a significant impact on the tribal districts of Odisha, such as Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Kalahandi. These areas have long been underdeveloped, primarily due to their difficult-to-access locations. However, with the new railway lines, travel will become much easier, leading to overall development in these regions. 

Improved transportation is likely to spur growth in agriculture, industry, and tourism, providing new opportunities for local residents. The easier movement of goods, especially forest products, will strengthen the local economy. Additionally, the projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, benefiting young people across the state. 

State Leadership Expresses Gratitude 

Odisha's leaders have expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their commitment to the state's development. Manmohan Samal, the State President, emphasized that these projects will fulfill the long-standing needs of Odisha's people and help the state achieve greater prosperity. 

In conclusion, this historic budget allocation for railway development marks a new chapter for Odisha, promising better connectivity, economic growth, and opportunities for all.