Bhubaneswar railway station, a pivotal transport node in eastern India, is on the cusp of a comprehensive overhaul, with its redevelopment nearing completion and an anticipated inauguration in December. Union Minister of State for Railways has affirmed that over 80 percent of the ₹398 crore project is complete, promising an advanced, airport-like facility for millions of passengers. This significant upgrade is a cornerstone of a broader, multi-crore investment strategy aimed at enhancing sustainable and equitable connectivity across Odisha, vital for fostering smart, eco-friendly urban environments.
The ambitious redevelopment of Bhubaneswar station envisions a five-storey structure replete with modern amenities, including executive lounges, dedicated commercial spaces, and enhanced landscaping. These features are designed to significantly improve passenger experience, reflecting a commitment to world-class public infrastructure. The project is part of a larger initiative by the Ministry of Railways, which is investing a substantial ₹2,379 crore to modernise 59 railway stations across Odisha, underscoring a strategic push towards a more efficient and technologically advanced rail network.
Beyond station upgrades, Odisha is witnessing an unprecedented surge in railway infrastructure development. The state has received a budgetary allocation of ₹10,599 crore in the 2025-26 railway budget, marking a remarkable 12.5-fold increase compared to the average annual allocation during the 2009-2014 period. This substantial financial commitment has propelled the completion of 4,046 km of new railway lines and 522 road over bridges (ROBs) and road under bridges (RUBs) over the last decade, significantly improving safety and reducing congestion on vital corridors.
The focus on modernisation also extends to rolling stock and network electrification. Odisha has achieved 100 percent railway electrification, a crucial step towards reducing the carbon footprint of its transport sector and promoting sustainable mobility. Furthermore, the introduction of six Vande Bharat trains now connecting 17 districts within the state exemplifies the integration of high-speed, comfortable travel options that cater to a wider demographic, ensuring more inclusive and gender-neutral access to efficient transport services.
Looking ahead, the central government plans to invest a colossal ₹50,000 crore for the holistic development of Odisha’s railway infrastructure by 2030. This includes an aggressive target of laying 1,200 km of new lines and undertaking 2,100 km of multi-tracking. Such strategic investments are fundamental to building a resilient, high-capacity rail network that not only meets the escalating demand for passenger and freight movement but also serves as a backbone for sustainable economic growth and urban development in the region, ensuring that cities are well-connected and future-ready.
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