Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Sunday that the Central Government has allocated ₹10,536 crore for the development of railway infrastructure in Odisha for the fiscal year 2024-25. This announcement was made during a special event in Bhubaneswar, organized to felicitate newly elected BJP MPs and MLAs.
Commitment to Odisha’s Railway Growth
Addressing the gathering, Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming Odisha’s railway sector. He assured that railway projects worth ₹1 lakh crore would be introduced in the state over the next five years, emphasizing the Prime Minister’s dedication to the region’s development. Vaishnaw underscored the significant increase in financial support for Odisha’s railways under the current administration.
Substantial Increase in Funding
A decade ago, Odisha received a meager ₹800 crore for its railway sector. Vaishnaw pointed out that this amount has now been raised to over ₹10,000 crore annually for the past three years. He attributed this increase to the government’s unwavering commitment to the state’s infrastructure development. The allocation of ₹10,536 crore for the upcoming fiscal year marks a record high for Odisha.
Record Railway Track Construction
Officials revealed that in the past decade, a record 1,846 kilometers of railway tracks have been laid in Odisha. This is a notable achievement, especially considering that it surpasses the total length of the railway network in Sri Lanka, which is 1,700 kilometers. Vaishnaw credited this progress to the proactive approach taken by the current government, contrasting it with the slower pace of development under previous administrations.
Future Plans and Projects
Looking ahead, the minister announced that Odisha will receive new railway projects worth ₹1 lakh crore in the next five years. This investment aims to further enhance the state’s infrastructure and boost connectivity. Additionally, Vaishnaw mentioned the introduction of 135 special trains to accommodate the increased demand during the Rath Yatra in Puri. These trains will operate across 25 districts to facilitate travel for devotees.
Electronic Manufacturing Cluster Initiative
In a bid to diversify the state’s industrial base, Vaishnaw announced the establishment of an electronic manufacturing cluster in Odisha. This initiative will include training for the semiconductor industry, aiming to make Odisha a hub for electronics manufacturing. Discussions with the Chief Minister have already taken place to ensure the successful implementation of this project.
A Bright Future for Odisha
The substantial financial commitment and the introduction of new projects signify a transformative phase for Odisha’s railway infrastructure. Minister Vaishnaw’s announcements reflect the central government’s strategic focus on developing the state’s transportation network and boosting its economic growth. With the planned investments and upcoming projects, Odisha is poised for significant advancements in its railway sector, promising better connectivity and growth opportunities for its residents.
(With inputs from agencies)
