Ministry of Railways approves introduction of new Puri–Koraput tri-weekly express

Bhubaneswar: In a major boost to rail connectivity across Odisha, the Ministry of Railways has approved the introduction of a new Tri-Weekly Express train between Puri and Koraput.

The new train, numbered 18407/18408 Puri–Koraput–Puri Express, will operate via Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Angul, Sambalpur, Bargarh Road, Balangir, Titlagarh, Kesinga, Muniguda, Rayagada, Kakiriguma and Damanjodi thereby connecting coastal, western and southern Odisha with improved passenger convenience and regional accessibility.

The introduction of this train fulfills a long standing aspiration of the people of several underserved regions of Odisha for a direct and convenient rail link between Puri, Bhubaneswar and the tribal dominated districts of southern Odisha. The train will provide much needed connectivity for passengers travelling for pilgrimage, education, healthcare, employment, tourism and business purposes.

The new service will pass through and benefit passengers from major districts including Puri, Khordha, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Angul, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Balangir, Kalahandi, Rayagada and Koraput. It will particularly strengthen connectivity to KBK region districts and improve access to important educational, medical and administrative centres of the state.

The train will have stoppages at important stations including Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Dhenkanal, Talcher Road, Angul, Boinda, Rairakhol, Sambalpur, Bargarh Road, Balangir, Titlagarh, Kesinga, Muniguda, Rayagada, Tikiri, Laxmipur Road, Kakiriguma and Damanjodi.

The new train is expected to significantly enhance regional integration and socio economic development by improving mobility between coastal Odisha and the interior districts of western and southern Odisha. The service will also provide seamless connectivity for pilgrims visiting Jagannath Temple and tourists travelling to the scenic and tribal regions of Koraput and Rayagada.