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:

• New railway lines and additional tracks.

• Upgrades to major stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

• Safety enhancements, including Kavach automatic train protection systems.

• 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:

• Baripada

• Barpali

• Bimalguda

• Paralakhemundi

• Talcher

• 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:

• 2,200 km of new tracks laid.

• 100% electrification achieved across the state.

• 632 road overbridges and underpasses constructed to improve safety.

• 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:

• Accelerate Odisha’s industrial and trade connectivity.

• Reduce travel time and enhance passenger experience.

• 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.