Vaishnaw announces new railway projects for Odisha

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In a move to address long-standing demands, minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the sanction of crucial railway projects for Odisha during a media interaction recently.

The first project, the Digha-Jaleswar (Chandaneswar-Jaleswar) new line spanning 42 km, will be fast-tracked following the completion of the approval process. This development is poised to boost the regional economy and tourism sector by integrating new areas into the mainstream. Notably, the Jaleswar-Chandaneswar line will establish vital connectivity to revered shaivapiths such as the Chandaneswar Temple and Bhusandeswar Temple in the Balasore district.

Key benefits of this initiative include promoting regional socio-economic upliftment by enhancing connectivity for students, pilgrims, farmers and local traders. Additionally, it will facilitate access to the hinterland of Jaleswar and Bhograi blocks in Balasore districts, thereby bolstering the fisheries sector and local agricultural produce market.

The second sanctioned project involves the Final Location Survey (FLS) for a New Line between Angul and Nayagarh Town via Narasinghpur-Kantilo-Khandapada and a Chord Line between Khurda Town and Kaipadar Road, spanning 120 km. This project aims to unlock various opportunities, including connectivity to the Kantilo Nilamadhab Temple, promoting nature tourism, establishing new markets for brass and bell metal craft, and facilitating freight movement for coal, power plants and ports.