In a significant development for regional transportation, South Western Railway (SWR) has initiated moves to restart iron ore loading and unloading operations at Curchorem-Sanvordem railway station. This decision comes in response to the increasing demand for ore transport from neighboring Karnataka state.
Revival of Iron Ore Facilities
During the recent Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee (DRUCC) meeting held in Hubbali, railway officials confirmed that civil works will commence shortly at the Curchorem-Sanvordem station. The revival of loading and unloading facilities follows opposition from residents of neighboring Kalay village regarding iron ore unloading activities at Kalay station.
Officials highlighted the growing iron ore demand originating from Karnataka and emphasized the need to capitalize on this emerging opportunity in ore transportation. The Karnataka-Goa iron ore corridor has been identified as a significant growth opportunity for the railway division, prompting the strategic decision to reactivate the Curchorem-Sanvordem facilities.
Infrastructure Development Projects
SWR remains committed to progressing with the Margao-Vasco track doubling project despite facing local opposition. The committee members were informed that 55% of the work has already been completed, with the project scheduled to be finished in phases by June 2026.
In addition to track expansion, SWR has ambitious plans to develop Vasco station into a model railway station alongside Ballari (Bellary). Divisional Railway Manager Balla Meena detailed that the station upgrades will incorporate digital display boards, organized parking facilities, wider entry gates, and escalators to enhance passenger convenience and improve station aesthetics.
Additional Infrastructure Initiatives
The Shantinagar new bridge project at Vasco has reached 70% completion and is expected to be operational by December 2025. During the DRUCC meeting, Chandrakant Gawas, who serves as the chair of the Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry's logistics committee and is a DRUCC member, presented several suggestions for improving railway operations.
Security enhancements are also on the agenda, with SWR announcing plans to expand CCTV surveillance coverage across all currently uncovered stations. Tenders are being finalized for this installation project, which is targeted for completion by March 2026.
These comprehensive infrastructure developments signal SWR's commitment to modernizing railway facilities in the region while simultaneously addressing the evolving transportation needs of the industrial sector, particularly the resurgent iron ore industry connecting Karnataka and Goa.
