TNI Bureau: In a major boost to rail connectivity in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today jointly flagged off the new ‘Puri-Koraput-Puri’ Express from the holy town of Shree Kshetra Puri.
The new train will provide a direct link between Shree Kshetra and Sabara Shree Kshetra, connecting Coastal, Western and Southern Odisha.
Termed a unique gift for devotees of Lord Jagannath, the service is expected to greatly benefit pilgrims, tourists, and locals traveling across the state.
The launch of the Puri–Koraput Express marks another milestone in East Coast Railway’s efforts to build a more connected and accessible Odisha.
On the occasion, the Brahmapur – Surat (Udhna) Amrit Bharat Express (Daily Service) was also inaugurated.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw carried out an overall assessment of arrangements related to crowd management, passenger movement, and operational readiness. Senior railway officials and the local administration briefed him on the integrated plan put in place for the smooth conduct of the festival.
The Minister also inspected passenger amenities at Puri station and reviewed measures to enhance convenience, strengthen safety, and ensure efficient operations during Ratha Jatra.
Announcing major steps for devotees, the Railway Minister said over 300 special trains will be operated during Ratha Jatra to manage the huge traffic.
Facilities including a holding area for more than 30,000 devotees, enhanced food arrangements, and additional ticket counters are being set up in Puri.
The new Puri–Koraput Express service is set to open up new markets for local produce, with special focus on ‘Kruti Koraput Coffee’ cultivated by tribal farmers of Koraput. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the launch of the train will create better market access for Koraput coffee and other local products of the region.
