New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today dedicated 100 per cent electrification of the rail network in Odisha via video conferencing today. He laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation, several railway projects worth more than Rs 8000 crores in the state.
“Odisha is one of those states in the country where 100 per cent electrification of rail lines has been achieved”, the Prime Minister remarked as he informed that work is underway at a fast pace to achieve the same feat in West Bengal. This, Modi said, has resulted in the overall increase in the speed of trains as well as saved time for freight trains. He noted that the mineral-rich state of Odisha will greatly benefit from the electrification of rail lines where pollution emanating from diesel engines will be significantly reduced and help in the industrial development of the state. This will reduce the operating and maintenance cost and reduce reliance on imported crude oil.
Modi today also flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Puri and Howrah. The train will pass through Khordha, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore districts in Odisha and Paschim Medinipur, and Purba Medinipur districts in West Bengal. The train will provide a “faster, more comfortable and more convenient” travel experience for rail users, boost tourism and promote economic development in the region. Referring to the indigenous origins of Vande Bharat Trains, the Prime Minister mentioned they are “touching all corners of the country”.
Besides, Modi today laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of Puri and Cuttack railway stations, doubling of the Sambalpur-Titlagarh rail line, a new broad gauge rail line between Angul – Sukinda; the third line connecting Manoharpur – Rourkela – Jharsuguda – Jamga and a new broad-gauge line between Bichhupali – Jhartarbha. “These will cater to the increased traffic demands as a result of rapid industrial development in the steel, power and mining sectors in Odisha and will also help ease the pressure on passenger traffic in these rail sections,” Modi said.
– global bihari bureau
