Ashwini Vaishnaw says “Our focus is on ensuring Odisha’s rail infrastructure matches its potential as ‘Industrial & Mineral’ hub

Dusmanta Behera
Dusmanta Behera - Editor-in-Chief
2 Min Read

NewzVille Desk

Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, provided a comprehensive breakdown of state-wise budget allocations on Monday. During the briefing, he highlighted a significant financial commitment to the state of Odisha, emphasizing infrastructure expansion and modernization.

Minister Vaishnaw noted that the current funding levels represent a massive jump compared to the average annual allocation seen between 2009 and 2014, signaling a shift toward “pro-active infrastructure development” in the region.

Vaishnaw said, “Our focus is on ensuring that Odisha’s rail infrastructure matches its potential as an industrial and mineral hub while providing world-class facilities to every passenger.”

Infrastructure Transformation:
Total work worth Rs 90,659 Cr under progress.
This massive investment covers track creation, station redevelopment, and safety enhancements across the entire state.

Amrit Station Scheme: Redefining the Passenger Experience
A total of 59 stations in Odisha have been identified for complete redevelopment under the Amrit Station Scheme.

Total Investment: 2,439 Cr for station modernisation.

Completed Stations: Works completed at 6 stations (Cuttack 2nd Entry, Baripada, Barpali, Bimlagarh, Parlakhemundi, Talcher)

For better connectivity, travel efficiency in the state has reached new heights with the expansion of premium train services:

Vande Bharat Express: 6 pairs of services currently operational.
Amrit Bharat Express: 6 pairs of services currently operational.

Network Expansion and 100% Electrification
Railway network has rapidly expanded in Odisha
Track Construction: Since 2014, approximately 2,200 km of tracks have been constructed. This is more than the entire rail network of Malaysia.

Full Electrification: The state has achieved 100% electrification, with 1,559 km of rail lines electrified since 2014.
Constructed 632 flyovers and underpassses.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for 2026-27 on Sunday, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s infrastructure. The Ministry of Railways has been granted its highest-ever allocation, with a total capital expenditure (CapEx) of ₹2,93,030 crore and a net outlay of ₹2,78,030 crore.

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Dusmanta Behera
By Dusmanta Behera Editor-in-Chief
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Dusmanta Behera's pioneering experience of 26 years includes key roles at News Today Pvt Ltd, ETV Networks, Lok Sabha TV. Rajya Sabha TV, and Sansad TV. As an accredited Video Journalist for more than 15 years under MI&B, Government of India covered State Visits of Prime Minister and Vice President. Valuable Contributions include Series on "National Security" and Chamber Telecast. Key interest remains in Documentaries on Armed Forces and Travelogues.
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