PM Unveils Rail Infrastructure Projects Worth Rs. 2,320 Crore in Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a series of railway infrastructure projects totaling Rs. 2,320 crore in Odisha on Monday, marking a significant stride towards enhancing the state's transportation network. The prime minister highlighted that the redeveloped Baleswar station has been intricately designed on the theme of the revered Jagannath Temple, embodying a blend of modern development and cultural heritage.

Under the ambit of the 'Amrit Bharat Station Scheme', twenty-one railway stations across Odisha are slated for redevelopment, with an allocated budget of Rs. 900 crore. Additionally, a total of 52 road over bridges and road under bridges are set to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,420 crore, further bolstering the state's infrastructure.

These initiatives are part of a larger scheme encompassing over 2,000 rail infrastructure projects valued at approximately Rs. 41,000 crore, aimed at modernizing and expanding India's railway network.

PM Modi emphasized that the 'Amrit Bharat' stations will serve as symbols of both progress and heritage, reflecting the country's commitment to holistic development while preserving its rich cultural legacy. He specifically lauded the thematic design of the Baleswar station, which draws inspiration from the Jagannath Temple, a revered icon in Odisha.

The redevelopment efforts extend beyond Baleswar, with several other stations in the state slated for transformation, including Sambalpur City, Jharsuguda Road, Titlagarh Junction, Rayagada, Koraput Junction, Jeypore, Paradeep, Bhadrak, Belpahar, and Brajarajnagar.

The program witnessed the participation of notable dignitaries, including Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who joined the event from various locations across the state, underscoring the collaborative efforts to propel Odisha's infrastructure development forward.

ET