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The foundation stone for the Rayagada railway division in Odisha was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conferencing. This significant event marks a crucial step in enhancing connectivity and economic development in southern Odisha, a region with a substantial tribal population. The new division, falling under the East Coast Railway (ECoR), is projected to significantly impact the region's tourism, business prospects, and employment opportunities. The Prime Minister emphasized Odisha's potential as a major player in international trade, highlighting its rich natural resources and extensive coastline. He also underscored the considerable investment in ongoing railway projects within the state, exceeding Rs 70,000 crore, and the establishment of seven Gati Shakti cargo terminals aimed at stimulating trade and industrial growth. Modi's statement, 'Odisha is at the forefront of India's development journey,' clearly positions the Rayagada railway division as a pivotal element in this advancement. The broader context of national railway modernization was also highlighted, encompassing the expansion of the Metro rail network to over 1,000 km since 2025, the development of modern rail corridors such as the dedicated freight corridor, and the ongoing efforts towards high-speed rail systems. These infrastructural improvements aim to alleviate pressure on existing railway lines and facilitate the transition to more efficient and high-speed rail travel across the nation. The Prime Minister further elaborated on the ongoing transformation within Indian Railways, citing the increased use of 'Made in India' coaches, the redevelopment of stations equipped with solar panels, and the implementation of the 'One station, One product' initiative. These initiatives, he stressed, are generating millions of jobs, not only within the railways but also within associated industries.
The event in Odisha was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries Ravneet Singh, and several Members of Parliament (MPs) from the surrounding regions. Chief Minister Majhi expressed his appreciation for the Union government's substantial allocation of Rs 10,586 crore for Odisha's railway development, a considerable increase compared to previous allocations. He emphasized the pivotal role of a robust railway network in supporting the planned Rs 1.50 lakh crore industrial investments in the Rayagada district. The establishment of the Rayagada railway division is expected to be a catalyst for both employment creation and infrastructure development throughout southern Odisha. However, the project's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Koraput MP Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka voiced concerns regarding the significant delay in the project's implementation. The railway division was initially announced in the 2017-18 budget, yet it took six years to reach the foundation stone-laying stage. Ulaka's call for the immediate appointment of an officer-on-special duty (OSD) to oversee the project's progress highlights the need for stringent monitoring and efficient execution to ensure its timely completion. This emphasis on accountability underscores the importance of fulfilling the promises made to the people of southern Odisha and delivering the anticipated economic benefits.
The Rayagada railway division project carries immense significance for the economic and social development of southern Odisha. It is not merely an infrastructural undertaking; it represents a commitment to bridging regional disparities and fostering inclusive growth. The project's impact will be felt across various sectors, from tourism and business to employment and overall infrastructure development. However, the challenges faced, including the significant delay in commencing the project, highlight the need for improved project management and efficient resource allocation. The emphasis on transparency and accountability, as expressed by the MP's call for an OSD, is crucial to ensuring that the project is completed within a reasonable timeframe and delivers its promised benefits to the people of the region. The successful execution of this project will not only improve connectivity but also serve as a model for future infrastructural development initiatives in other underserved regions of India. The integration of sustainable practices, such as the use of solar panels in redeveloped stations, further enhances the project's long-term sustainability and aligns with the government's broader commitment to environmentally conscious development. The economic ripple effects, extending beyond direct job creation within the railways to the ancillary industries, will further contribute to the overall economic prosperity of the region. The sustained commitment from both the central and state governments will be crucial in ensuring the successful completion and optimal utilization of this transformative railway project.
Source: PM lays foundation for ECoR’s Rayagada division bldng