Indian Railways is speeding up the construction of a new 32-km rail line between Puri and Konark in Odisha. This project will directly connect the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Konark Sun Temple for the first time. The Ministry of Railways has allocated ₹138.38 crore for the financial year 2026-27 to keep the work moving forward.
What are the key details of the Puri-Konark rail project?
The project involves building a greenfield rail line under the East Coast Railway (ECoR) zone. It is part of a larger plan to create a coastal rail triangle linking Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark. To complete this, the government needs about 521.48 acres of land, including private and government land across several villages in Puri and Gop tehsils.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 32 Kilometers |
| Budget (FY 2026-27) | ₹138.38 Crore |
| Land Required | 521.48 Acres |
| New Stations | Poratara, Bhinguradhia, and Konark |
| Bridges | 27 minor and 8 major bridges |
How will this new line benefit local residents and tourists?
This rail link will make travel easier for millions of pilgrims who visit these two holy sites every year. It will reduce the dependence on road travel and help local businesses, hotels, and shops in coastal villages. Deepak Rout, CPRO of ECoR, confirmed that the alignment avoids forest land, so there will be no environmental damage to the coastal region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the total length and budget for the Puri-Konark rail line?
The new rail line will be 32 kilometers long. The Ministry of Railways has allocated ₹138.38 crore for the financial year 2026-27.
Which stations will be part of this new route?
The proposed railway line will feature three stations: Poratara, Bhinguradhia, and Konark.