The government on Thursday (August 29) announced that it has identified 38 priority rail projects under a strategic coal logistics plan to be fast-tracked in close collaboration with the Ministry of Railways. This initiative aims to enhance rail connectivity, ensure timely coal supply, and reduce logistics costs, ultimately boosting the efficiency of coal transportation nationwide.
Key Rail Initiatives in Odisha Approved
Among these projects, the government has recently approved two key rail initiatives in Odisha. The Sardega-Bhalumuda double line and the Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line projects are expected to play a crucial role in optimizing coal logistics.
The Sardega-Bhalumuda double line, extending 37.24 kilometers, will traverse key coal blocks in the IB Valley and Mand-Raigarh Coalfield. This new line is designed to facilitate the efficient evacuation of coal from both Coal India’s Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd and various private mines. By shortening the transportation distance to power plants in northern India, the project aims to significantly enhance operational efficiency.
Similarly, the 138.32-kilometer Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line project will streamline coal evacuation from the Talcher Coalfield. This new route will offer a more direct path to Nagpur and the western regions, expected to lower logistics costs and further improve the efficiency of coal transportation from the Talcher area.