What’s inside:
The central government has announced a significant budget allocation for railway development in Odisha, aiming to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in the state.
Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared exciting news about Odisha on Monday. The central government has allocated ₹10,928 crores for railway development in the state for the financial year 2026-27.
During a virtual press conference, Vaishnaw mentioned that there are ongoing railway projects worth ₹90,659 crores in Odisha. He highlighted that the total investment in the state’s rail sector is set to exceed ₹1 lakh crores with this new budget.
This new funding is a massive increase compared to the previous average of ₹838 crores per year from 2009 to 2014. Last year, Odisha received ₹10,599 crores for railways, showing steady growth in investment.
The minister also talked about the East-West freight corridor, which will connect Dankuni in West Bengal to Surat in Gujarat, passing through Odisha. This corridor is expected to boost industrial growth and economic activities in the region.
In addition, Vaishnaw announced that six pairs of Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express trains are already operational in Odisha, with plans for bullet train services soon. The government is also taking steps to protect wildlife by installing AI-based thermal cameras along railway tracks to prevent elephant accidents.
Summary:
- Odisha gets ₹10,928 crores for railway development in 2026-27.
- Total ongoing projects in Odisha now worth ₹90,659 crores.
- Investment in railways expected to exceed ₹1 lakh crores.
- New East-West freight corridor to enhance trade and industry.
- Measures introduced to protect elephants near railway tracks.