Bhubaneswar, July 15: In a major push to strengthen Odisha’s rail infrastructure, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved two strategic railway expansion projects with a combined investment of ₹3,907 crore, aimed at boosting freight capacity, improving passenger services and supporting the state’s growing industrial economy.
The Union Cabinet’s approval of the Paradeep–Haridaspur railway line doubling project marks another significant milestone in strengthening Odisha’s railway infrastructure, enhancing logistics efficiency, and accelerating the state’s industrial and economic growth.
The project… pic.twitter.com/q1qQfausn5
— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) July 15, 2026
The approved projects include the doubling of the Paradip–Haridaspur railway line and the fourth-line expansion of the Rajkharsuan–Dangoposi rail section. Both projects are expected to enhance network capacity, ease congestion on busy corridors and improve operational efficiency across eastern India’s railway network.
The Paradip–Haridaspur line, which serves as a critical rail link to Paradip Port, will play a key role in strengthening cargo movement. The doubling of the route is expected to ensure faster evacuation of coal, iron ore, fertilisers and other bulk commodities, reduce transit delays and improve logistics for industries dependent on the port.
Meanwhile, the addition of a fourth railway line between Rajkharsuan and Dangoposi will substantially increase traffic-handling capacity on one of Odisha’s busiest rail corridors. The project is expected to facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains while reducing bottlenecks and improving punctuality.
The two railway projects are scheduled for completion by 2030–31 and form part of the Centre’s broader strategy to modernise India’s railway infrastructure through capacity enhancement and improved connectivity.
Officials said the projects will not only strengthen Odisha’s transportation network but also generate employment during the construction phase, support mining and manufacturing sectors, and improve supply chain efficiency across the region.
With the latest approvals, Odisha is set to witness another major infrastructure boost, reinforcing its position as a key logistics and industrial hub on the eastern coast. The enhanced rail connectivity is expected to improve trade competitiveness, facilitate faster movement of goods and passengers, and contribute significantly to the state’s long-term economic growth.
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