Odisha’s railway infrastructure is set for a major transformation as the Union Budget 2026-27 allocates ₹10,928 crore to the state—continuing a four-year streak of funding above ₹10,000 crore. The investment promises upgrades across tracks, stations, safety systems, and train services, strengthening the state’s connectivity and economic growth.
Record Funding for Odisha Railways
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Odisha will receive ₹10,928 crore, up ₹329 crore from last year. The allocation is part of a larger national railway budget of ₹2.78 lakh crore, highlighting Odisha as a key focus in India’s expanding rail network.
The minister emphasized that current funding levels are 13 times higher than during 2009–2014, when Odisha received just ₹838 crore annually. He credited the “double-engine” government for streamlining approvals related to land, environment, and forest clearances.
Ongoing and Upcoming Projects
Odisha currently has projects worth ₹90,659 crore underway, covering:
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New railway lines and additional tracks.
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Upgrades to major stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
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Safety enhancements, including Kavach automatic train protection systems.
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Expansion of Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express train services.
Station Upgrades and Modernization
The government has allocated ₹2,439 crore for revamping 59 stations, with five already completed, including:
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Baripada
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Barpali
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Bimalguda
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Paralakhemundi
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Talcher
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Cuttack (second entrance)
Major hubs like Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack are expected to complete modernization by the end of the year.
Track Expansion and Electrification
Odisha has made significant strides over the past 11 years:
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2,200 km of new tracks laid.
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100% electrification achieved across the state.
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632 road overbridges and underpasses constructed to improve safety.
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Six Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Express trains now operational.
The state continues to expand infrastructure to improve travel efficiency, safety, and connectivity for passengers and freight alike.
Economic and Regional Impact
Experts say the new budget allocation will:
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Accelerate Odisha’s industrial and trade connectivity.
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Reduce travel time and enhance passenger experience.
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Support local employment and economic growth through construction and operations.
With this historic investment, Odisha’s railways are poised to become a central pillar of the state’s economic development and regional connectivity, aligning with India’s broader vision for modernized and sustainable rail infrastructure.