Berhampur MP Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy has urged Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to extend the Bhubaneswar-Dhanbad express to Berhampur, aiming to improve connectivity for passengers in southern Odisha, particularly Ganjam district.
Request for Direct Train Service
In a letter to the railway minister, Panigrahy highlighted the needs of residents. He stated that many people from Ganjam work in Bokaro and would benefit from a direct train from the silk city. Additionally, the proposed extension would provide convenient travel for patients seeking treatment at the Central Institute of Psychiatry in Ranchi. The MP also emphasized that the move could boost tourism in Gopalpur and Chilika. He expressed hope that the minister would consider his request and take necessary action.
Background of the Train
The Bhubaneswar-Dhanbad express, initially operated as a special train, was regularized by the railways in March. Within Odisha, the train currently stops at Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Talcher Road, Angul, Rairakhol, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Rourkela. Extending it to Berhampur would add a key station in the southern part of the state.
This proposal is expected to significantly ease travel for thousands of commuters and support regional development. The MP's appeal underscores the demand for better rail infrastructure in the region.
