New Delhi, 22nd March 2023: The Indian Railways has achieved the complete electrification of the existing Broad Gauge network of Odisha, covering a route of 2,822 kilometers. This milestone is in line with the Railways’ target of attaining Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030.
The electrification of the network has led to numerous benefits, such as lower line haul costs (about 2.5 times lower), increased haulage and sectional capacity, and reduced operating and maintenance costs of electric locomotives. Additionally, it promotes energy efficiency and eco-friendliness by reducing dependence on imported crude oil, saving foreign exchange. Going forward, new Broad Gauge networks will be sanctioned along with electrification, to achieve a 100% electrified network as per the Railways’ policy.
Odisha state’s territory is covered by East Coast, South Eastern, and South East Central Railways, with major stations including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Sambalpur, Bhadrak, Rourkela, and Jharsuguda. The railway network plays a crucial role in transporting minerals, agricultural products, and other goods from Odisha to other parts of the country. The first railway line in Odisha was built in 1897, connecting Cuttack – Khurda Road – Puri. Some of the notable trains of Odisha include Howrah-Puri Express, Konark Express, Coromandel Express, Hirakund Express, Visakha Express, and Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, providing convenient connectivity to different parts of the state and other major cities in India.