Vaishnaw reviews key rail projects during Odisha visit

Bhubaneswar: The minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, conducted a review of the ongoing railway projects and traffic facilities within the jurisdiction of the East Coast Railway (ECoR) during his two-day visit to Odisha.

The minister placed particular emphasis on the progress of super-critical and public-centric railway projects in the state, focusing on vital rail line connections to mineral belts, ports and industries. The redevelopment of railway stations also took centre stage during the review meeting, where the status of ongoing projects was thoroughly assessed.

Also read: Baleswar Railway Station to be redeveloped, project cost Rs 197 crore

Later in the evening, Vaishnaw inspected the Puri Railway Station, taking stock of the redevelopment work’s progress. During the review meeting, the minister highlighted the need for expedited coal transportation to various ports, industries, and power plants. He underscored the importance of establishing rail line connections to mineral belts, ports and industries for seamless transportation.

A significant aspect of the discussion centered around the prioritisation of expanding the rail lines, particularly the proposed three freight corridors spanning 40 thousand kilometers. The minister expressed the urgency to enhance freight transportation speed without causing disruptions to passenger train services.

ECoR general manager Manoj Sharma and all principal heads of departments, such as chief administrative officer (construction) P Sreenivas and divisional railway manager/Khurda Road HS Bajwa were present.