The Ministry of Railways has approved Rs 2.88 billion for constructing an 8.1 km railway flyover connecting Sambalpur station with Sambalpur city station. This significant project aims to enhance train operations and alleviate congestion at this critical junction.

Part of the Indian Railways' energy corridor scheme for sustainable infrastructure development, the flyover will enable simultaneous train movements from all directions at Sambalpur, easing train traffic and ensuring smoother operations.

Currently, cross-traffic from Jharsuguda, Titilagarh, and Angul directions causes delays and operational inefficiencies at Sambalpur junction and Sambalpur city stations. The flyover will resolve these issues by allowing simultaneous train movements without surface crossings, thus preventing detentions and improving overall operational capabilities in the region.

Upon completion, the flyover will provide dedicated infrastructure for trains from and to Titlagarh, Jharsuguda, and Angul directions, bypassing the need for crossing other lines. This will eliminate cross-traffic delays, enhance train speed, and reduce waiting periods for trains approaching this busy junction.

?This is a significant project for the region. Trains will no longer be detained at Sambalpur and Sambalpur city stations, significantly reducing waiting periods,? said a railway official.

Previously, the ministry sanctioned Rs 1.91 billion for a 7.41 km flyover at Khurda Road station and Rs 1.83 billion for an 8.11 km flyover at Titlagarh station to facilitate smoother train operations at those junctions.

Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed the East Coast Railway (ECoR) to ensure the timely completion of these projects. (Source: TNIE)