New Raipur-Kurud & Raoghat Trains Launched in Chhattisgarh
In a historic milestone for the state, Indian Railways has inaugurated new broad-gauge rail lines and passenger services in Chhattisgarh on the auspicious occasion of Vijaya Dashami, October 20, 2026. The new services, connecting Raipur to Kurud and Raoghat, promise to transform regional connectivity and provide immense relief to commuters.
Ending a 10-Year Wait for Kurud Residents
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai officially flagged off the new train services, marking a significant achievement for the region. The inauguration of the 22-kilometer Abhanpur-Kurud broad-gauge section represents a major advancement in the ongoing Abhanpur-Dhamtari gauge conversion project. For the residents of the Kurud region, this service marks the end of a long 10-year wait for reliable rail connectivity.
Historic Connectivity for Raoghat
The event also celebrated a moment of immense pride as a train reached Raoghat for the very first time since India's independence. This new link provides a critical lifeline to the remote southern regions of the state, bridging the gap between isolated areas and the state capital. Local dignitaries, including Kanker MP Bhojraj Nag and MLA Vikram Usendi, were present at the Raoghat station to witness the commencement of these vital services.
Unbeatable Travel Fares: Rail vs. Bus
One of the most significant benefits of these new services is the massive reduction in travel costs for the general public. The new rail options offer substantial savings compared to existing road transport:
- Raipur to Kurud: The fare has been set at just ₹20.
- Raipur to Raoghat: The service is priced at approximately ₹55, whereas bus travel on the same route typically costs between ₹300 and ₹350.
Massive Infrastructure and Budget Boost
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the massive scale of investment in the state's rail network. He noted that the railway budget allocation for Chhattisgarh has surged to over ₹7,000 crore this year, a staggering increase from the annual average of approximately ₹300 crore recorded between 2004 and 2014.
Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, participating via video conferencing, also outlined several other key infrastructure developments for the region, including:
- The Dalli-Rajhara–Rowghat line.
- The Kendi–Abhanpur–Rajim–Dhamtari gauge conversion.
- The approval of the Pendra Road–Bilaspur–Uslapur third line.
Additionally, the initiative included the laying of the foundation stone for a new Electric Locomotive Maintenance Facility in Raipur. These developments are expected to act as a catalyst for regional trade, healthcare access, and new employment opportunities across Chhattisgarh.