The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has announced a significant infrastructure investment to modernize and expand its Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) maintenance facility at Khurda Road. With an allocation of approximately Rs 20 crore, the project aims to upgrade the sole MEMU car shed under its jurisdiction, preparing it for a future increase in train services.
Boosting Capacity for Growing Passenger Demand
Officials from the Khurda Road railway division confirmed that enhancement work has already commenced. The comprehensive plan includes augmenting the shed's capacity, improving testing and training facilities, streamlining scrap management, and undertaking staff welfare initiatives. A key addition will be an extra stabling line inside the shed to park more MEMU cars efficiently.
An officer stated that this crucial work is slated for completion within the next two to three years. The upgrade is a direct response to the anticipated rise in the number of MEMU trains operating across the region in the coming days, ensuring the facility can sustain reliable operations.
A Pivotal Hub for Odisha's Commuter Network
Since its inauguration on June 22, 2018, the Khurda Road MEMU shed has been the backbone of suburban and passenger train services in Odisha. Currently, it maintains a fleet of 50 MEMU units, comprising 200 coaches. These units power 42 Up and Down MEMU Passenger Train Services daily, catering to a staggering 1.32 lakh passengers every day.
The shed's evolution has been phased. Phase-I, sanctioned in 2007-08 and completed in 2018 at a cost of Rs 18.69 crore, established two maintenance lines. The more recent Phase-II, finished in July 2023 with an investment of Rs 84.99 crore, was a game-changer. It added major facilities like:
- Two 16-coach length inspection lines
- One wheel turning line
- Two heavy repair bay lines
- A washing line
This expansion substantially boosted maintenance capabilities, equipping the shed to handle around 400 MEMU coaches.
Eyeing the Future: Phase-III and Beyond
Looking ahead, railway sources outlined ambitious plans to meet future traffic growth. Strategies include further capacity augmentation, converting existing rakes into longer formations, and inducting new 3-Phase MEMU rakes. The proposed Phase-III construction will be initiated upon receiving the necessary approval from the Railway Board.
This continued investment underscores the strategic importance of the Khurda Road facility in strengthening Odisha's rail connectivity. By enhancing this critical maintenance hub, the East Coast Railway is laying the groundwork for more frequent, reliable, and efficient commuter services for the people of the state.
