Boudh District Connected to Rail Network for First Time, Thanks to New Line

On June 20, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for multiple railway infrastructure projects worth over ₹2,750 crore in Odisha. These projects aim to enhance regional connectivity, improve logistics efficiency, and fulfill long-standing aspirations of people in underconnected districts like Boudh. The launch also included new train services, signifying a major step towards inclusive development and connectivity under the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat – Viksit Odisha’.

Why in News?

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Odisha marked the unveiling of major railway infrastructure developments—including new rail lines, maintenance facilities, and train services. Most notably, the inauguration of the Sonepur–Purunakatak rail line connected Boudh district headquarters to the national rail network for the first time. This historic occasion coincided with 11 years of Good Governance and Garib Kalyan, highlighting the government’s continued focus on regional development.

Projects Inaugurated, Dedicated, and Foundation Laid

Foundation Stone Laid

• 3rd & 4th Rail Line between Sarla–Sason (16 km)
• Cost: ₹252 crore
• Purpose: Decongest Jharsuguda–Sambalpur section, aid industrial growth

Inaugurated

• New Railway Line between Sonepur–Purunakatak (73 km)
• Cost: ₹1,376 crore
• Impact: First-ever rail link to Boudh district HQ
• Part of: Khurda Road–Balangir Rail Project (301 km)

Dedicated to Nation

• Freight Wagon Overhaul Facility at Sarla – ₹165 crore
• Subway in Bamra–Dharuadihi Section – ₹10 crore
• Link C–Dumetra of Bondamunda–Ranchi Doubling (5 km) – ₹98 crore
• Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Jaleswar – ₹89 crore
• 4th Rail Line between Jharsuguda–Jamga (53 km) – part of 206 km Jharsuguda–Bilaspur Project

Key Objectives & Benefits

• Connectivity: Boudh and adjoining districts gain rail access for the first time.
• Economic Growth: Boosts local industries and SMEs through better freight logistics.
• Agriculture Support: Farmers can reach broader markets for better returns.
• Healthcare Access: Direct routes to Bhubaneswar and Sambalpur enable improved medical access.
• Educational Upliftment: Students from remote areas can travel to premier institutions.
• Cultural Unity: Promotes integration and cultural exchange across regions.