Khurda Road Balangir Rail Project Reaches Milestone with Major Tunnel Completion

The Khurda Road-Balangir rail project, a transformative initiative aimed at improving connectivity in Odisha, has taken a significant step forward with the completion of the 2.6-km-long tunnel between Buguda and Banigochha in the state’s Nayagarh district. This crucial milestone, achieved using the advanced New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), has added momentum to the project, bringing the region closer to enhanced rail connectivity. The successful breakthrough, known as “daylighting,” was celebrated as an engineering feat in one of the most challenging terrains of the Eastern Ghats.

The breakthrough, which marks the longest tunnel (T-3) in Nayagarh district and the second-longest in the entire project, comes after years of careful planning and complex construction. The tunnel’s 2-degree curve was no small achievement, navigating the difficult landscape to ensure the project’s timely progress. This development is expected to play a pivotal role in connecting the eastern and western parts of Odisha, boosting transportation, and stimulating economic growth in the region. The Khurda Road-Balangir rail project covers a 301-km stretch, with a 75-km segment between Daspalla and Purunakatak requiring the construction of seven tunnels. The Eastern Ghats, known for their steep, rugged terrain, presented significant challenges for the construction teams. The cutting-edge technologies employed to tackle these challenges have made the project one of the most complex and ambitious railway undertakings in India.

The breakthrough of Tunnel T-3 is just one in a series of tunnels designed to overcome the geographic difficulties of the region. The longest tunnel (T-7), which spans an impressive 4.85 km, has already been completed, and work on the remaining sections is progressing steadily. As of now, a total of 215 km of the rail line has been completed. This includes 105.8 km between Khurda Road and Daspalla, and 109 km between Balangir and Purunakatak, a major leap forward in the project’s timeline. Once completed, the Khurda Road-Balangir rail line will have a transformative effect on the state’s transport infrastructure. The improved connectivity will drastically reduce travel time between Bhubaneswar and Balangir, making it easier for people and goods to move between the two regions. This is expected to have a profound impact on both economic and social development. The reduced travel time will also open up new opportunities for trade and tourism, further strengthening Odisha’s economy. The rail project will facilitate better access to markets, boost local businesses, and support the state’s industrial growth. Additionally, the enhanced connectivity is likely to improve the overall quality of life for residents, offering better access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded the milestone, describing the breakthrough as a testament to the engineering excellence achieved in challenging terrains. “This tunnel breakthrough showcases our commitment to improving the region’s connectivity,” he said, highlighting the efforts of the team working on the project. He emphasised that the Khurda Road-Balangir rail line would play a vital role in the state’s future infrastructure, facilitating faster, safer, and more efficient transportation. While significant progress has been made, the project is not yet finished. The remaining sections, including the stretch from Purunakatak to Adhenigarh, are set to be completed in the coming months. Once the full 301 km is operational, the rail line will provide a much-needed boost to the state’s infrastructure, promoting seamless connectivity between its key cities and regions. As the project nears completion, the future prospects for Odisha’s rail connectivity look brighter than ever. The successful tunnelling and ongoing work promise to significantly improve the region’s transport networks, facilitating smoother travel for both passengers and freight. This will ultimately play a key role in shaping the economic and social landscape of Odisha, positioning the state for long-term growth and development. The breakthrough of the 2.6-km tunnel is a monumental achievement in the Khurda Road-Balangir rail project and marks a significant step in enhancing rail infrastructure in Odisha. As the project continues to progress, it is clear that the improved connectivity will not only ease travel but also catalyse economic growth, further integrating the region with the rest of the state and the country. With the railway line expected to be completed in the near future, the project promises to be a cornerstone of Odisha’s modern transportation network.