Bhubaneswar- In a major infrastructure push for Odisha’s rail network, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved a significant project worth Rs802.9 crore for the Cuttack–Nergundi section, which includes the construction of a fourth railway line and a rail flyover at Nergundi.
This section lies along the crucial Howrah–Chennai High-Density Network (HDN), which frequently experiences heavy congestion due to the convergence of freight traffic from Paradeep Port and passenger traffic at Cuttack junction. With no dedicated rail arrangements for Talcher-bound trains, delays have become a regular issue, particularly at surface-level crossings.
The newly sanctioned fourth line and flyover are expected to ease bottlenecks, streamline operations, and reduce wait times for both Mail/Express and passenger trains operating to and from Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. By separating freight and coaching traffic, the project will drastically improve train punctuality and overall corridor efficiency.
Additionally, the development includes the construction of two new rail bridges over the Mahanadi and Birupa rivers, further strengthening the infrastructure in this critical zone. The new rail line will feature modern safety and operational enhancements such as the Kavach Automatic Train Protection system and 2×25 kV electrification, supporting speeds of up to 130 kmph.
Part of the East Coast Railway’s strategic modernization plan, this project is set to transform the way trains operate in one of India’s busiest rail corridors, ensuring faster and safer movement of both goods and passengers across Odisha and beyond.
