Bhubaneswar: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Friday approved four major railway infrastructure projects, including two in Odisha—Sambalpur–Jarapda and Jharsuguda–Sason—with a combined investment of ₹18,658 crore. These projects span across 15 districts in Odisha, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, and will expand the Indian Railways network by approximately 1,247 km. All projects are slated for completion by 2030-31.
The four approved projects are:
Sambalpur–Jarapda (3rd and 4th lines)
Jharsuguda–Sason (3rd and 4th lines)
Kharsia–Naya Raipur–Parmalkasa (5th and 6th lines)
Gondia–Balharshah (doubling of lines)
According to East Coast Railway (ECoR), these multi-tracking initiatives will significantly improve the speed and efficiency of both passenger and freight transport. They are expected to enhance travel convenience, reduce logistics costs, lower dependence on fuel imports, and cut carbon emissions—contributing to a more sustainable railway network.
The Sambalpur–Jarapda project, spanning 277 km, will be developed at a cost of ₹3,917 crore. “This corridor will stimulate economic activity in the Talcher–Sambalpur region, enable the operation of more passenger and express trains, and contribute to Odisha’s GDP,” ECoR stated.
Similarly, the Jharsuguda–Sason 3rd and 4th lines will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹1,187 crore. Positioned as a freight corridor, this line will integrate passenger and cargo movement, accelerate train services along the Howrah–Mumbai route, and boost logistics efficiency in the region.
ECoR also highlighted the employment potential of these projects, estimating they will create around 379 lakh human-days of direct employment during construction.
These developments are part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for integrated, multi-modal connectivity. The projects reflect a coordinated approach to infrastructure planning and aim to ensure seamless movement of people, goods, and services.
