The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has accelerated the Bargarh-Nuapada new line project in western Odisha by issuing tenders for the construction of bridges over the Jeera and Ong rivers, along with a major portion of the railway line. Compensation disbursement to landowners has also commenced, marking significant progress in this crucial infrastructure initiative.
Project Overview and Cost
Sanctioned by the Ministry of Railways in October 2024, the 138.32 km project is being executed at an estimated cost of Rs 2621.92 crore. Unlike many delayed new line projects, this one is being developed on a mission mode, according to ECoR officials. The alignment will connect Bargarh Road to Nuapada Road, passing through 12 block sections that include Sarsara, Dumerpali, Bijepur Road, Padampur, Paikmal, and Bartunda.
Construction Progress
Tenders have been invited for the first 42 km stretch from Bargarh Road to Badipali. Specifically, tenders have been floated for constructing two important bridges over the Jeera and Ong rivers in Bargarh district. This phase represents a critical step in advancing the overall project timeline.
Land Acquisition Milestones
Significant achievements have been made in land acquisition. Gazette notifications have been published for all 85 villages in the project area, including 79 in Bargarh district and six in Nuapada district. Final land acquisition notifications for 18 villages covering the first three block sections have already been issued. Valuation of land, trees, and structures is currently underway. Applications for the alienation of government land for the first five block sections have been submitted to concerned tehsildars.
Forest Clearance and Surveys
With respect to forest land diversion, a DGPS survey for HAL category land has been completed. Efforts are ongoing to complete surveys for Sabik category plots after retrieving records from district record rooms. These steps are essential for ensuring environmental compliance and project continuity.
Expected Benefits
Once completed, the Bargarh Road-Nuapada Road new line project will significantly enhance rail connectivity in western Odisha, particularly benefiting the districts of Bargarh and Nuapada. It is expected to open new avenues for trade, commerce, agriculture, and passenger transportation in the region. ECoR is closely coordinating with state government authorities to resolve pending land acquisition and forest clearance matters expeditiously, as stated in an official release.
