CCEA Greenlights Two Railway Initiatives in Odisha, CM Majhi Expresses Gratitude to PM Modi

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two major railway projects approved in Odisha.
- Investment of Rs 18,658 crore for national expansion.
- Projects aim to enhance connectivity in 15 districts.
- Expected to improve train operation efficiency.
- Part of PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
Bhubaneswar, April 5 (NationPress) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed his heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the endorsement of two significant railway initiatives in the state by the Union government’s Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).
The CCEA on Friday sanctioned four railway projects nationwide, including two in Odisha, aimed at expanding the Indian Railways' track network with an investment of Rs 18,658 crore.
These four initiatives span 15 districts across three states—Maharashtra, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh—and will enhance the existing railway network by approximately 1,247 km.
“The persistent commitment of Prime Minister Modi towards the advancement of Odisha is evident through the routine approval of such crucial development projects for the state. With the leadership of PM Modi, Odisha is set to become the growth engine of our nation,” remarked CM Majhi on Friday.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, CM Majhi also conveyed his appreciation to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the approval of these railway projects.
The two projects include the third and fourth lines between Sambalpur and Jarapada (Talcher, Angul) as well as the third and fourth lines between Jharsuguda and Sason (Sambalpur).
The Railways plans to invest Rs 3,917 crore for the Sambalpur-Jarapada initiative, while Rs 1,187 crore will be allocated for the Jharsuguda-Sason project.
Collectively, these initiatives will amount to Rs 5,104 crore for the Railways. These multi-track projects are expected to significantly boost connectivity and the railway transportation capacity in Sambalpur, Angul, and Jharsuguda districts.
The projects are anticipated to alleviate congestion, enhance the efficiency of train operations, and facilitate the swift movement of goods and passengers.
These initiatives will be executed under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity, which involves integrated planning to ensure seamless transportation of people, goods, and services in the region.
Importantly, the Central government has designated Rs 10,599 crore for the development of Railways in Odisha in the budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year.