Odisha is on the verge of a substantial upgrade in its rail infrastructure, following the Centre’s endorsement of the Kharagpur-Jharsuguda (Bagdehi) fourth-line initiative. This project is part of a larger plan that includes three multi-tracking rail projects valued at Rs 10,783 crore.
Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, these projects will extend approximately 656 km of rail lines across several states, including Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
The fourth line from Kharagpur to Jharsuguda is particularly crucial for Odisha, as it supports a substantial volume of coal, iron, steel, cement, and other freight transport. This enhancement is anticipated to enable an additional 27 million tonnes of freight movement each year, while also alleviating congestion and optimizing train operations.
Moreover, the projects will enhance accessibility to prominent tourist attractions such as the Taratarini Temple and the historic Jagannath temple located near Jharsuguda.
The government noted that these initiatives, which fall under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aim to boost multi-modal connectivity and improve logistics efficiency, facilitating smoother transport for both passengers and freight.
Approximately 4,790 villages, home to nearly 56 lakh residents, will benefit from the expanded rail network. The increase in rail freight movement is also projected to save about 12 crore litres of oil and reduce CO₂ emissions by around 62 crore kg.
For Odisha, this fourth-line project will fortify the rail infrastructure that supports its mineral-rich regions and industrial sectors, enhancing the transport of raw materials and finished products to markets beyond the state.
