Odisha is gearing up for a game-changing infrastructure upgrade with 301-km Khurda Road–Balangir New Railway Line, a transformative project that will connect coastal Odisha with its western region. The line will significantly improve mobility for districts including Nayagarh, Boudh, Sonepur and Balangir, enhancing access to markets, strengthening regional trade and supporting balanced socio-economic development.
The project demands extensive engineering due to the undulating terrain, particularly between Dasapalla and Boudh. Key works include multiple tunnels, viaducts, deep cuttings, and high embankments to ensure safer and smoother train movement. Several tunnels are under construction to maintain gentle gradients with minimal environmental disruption, while long viaducts ensure safe passage across valleys, rivers and sensitive forest zones.
A defining feature of the project is the construction of India’s second longest railway viaduct created to integrate with the upcoming Bhrutang irrigation project reservoir.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS – VIADUCT OVER BHUTRANG RESERVOIR (BUGUDABANIGOCHHA SECTION)
● Length: 4.778 km, set to become India’s second-longest railway viaduct once completed.
● Location: Connects Buguda and Banigochha stations in Nayagarh district, spanning the future Bhrutang reservoir.
● Structure: 182 spans with the tallest pier rising 26 metres.
● Design: Elevated alignment over difficult hilly terrain to avoid disturbances to forest and wildlife.
● Technology: Advanced construction methods adopted to ensure speed, stability and minimal environmental impact.
The project also includes elephant underpasses and overpasses, dedicated wildlife corridors, and systems designed in consultation with forest authorities to ensure unhindered movement of elephants and other wildlife. These features minimise habitat fragmentation and reduce human–animal conflict.
Once operational, the Khurda Road–Balangir line is expected to boost trade, improve transportation, support tourism across forest belts, and strengthen the rail network while prioritizing environmental safeguards making it one of eastern India’s most significant railway developments.
