Odisha’s Rail Push to Empower Tribal Regions and Boost Inclusive Growth

Odisha is witnessing a quiet revolution, one driven by steel tracks winding through its dense forests, tribal heartlands, and remote landscapes. In a high-level review led by Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg, senior officials from key departments came together to accelerate railway infrastructure projects that promise not just connectivity, but real change for Odisha’s tribal communities.

The most transformative impact is visible in the KBK region—Kalahandi, Balangir, and Koraput—areas historically marked by neglect and underdevelopment. New railway lines such as Gunupur–Therubali, Junagarh–Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri–Pandurangapuram are set to bring these tribal-dominated regions closer to major urban centres like Raipur, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad. These projects are expected to open up access to markets, healthcare, and education, while supporting agro-industries and tribal eco-tourism.

In the northern tribal district of Mayurbhanj, fresh momentum is building with the introduction of new lines like Bangriposi–Gorumahisani, Badampahar–Kendujhargarh, and Buramara–Chakulia. These routes will link isolated tribal belts to the state’s western corridor, enabling smoother movement of people and goods, and offering new livelihood opportunities to indigenous communities that have remained economically marginalized.

Though tourism-centric, projects like the ₹492.12 crore Puri–Konark rail line also carry inclusive goals. The 32 km stretch between two of Odisha’s most iconic temples is expected to create over 11 lakh man-days of work. By integrating initiatives like One Station One Product, the project opens a window for tribal artisans and producers to participate in the formal economy and reach wider audiences.

Other critical corridors such as Khurda Road–Balangir and Bargarh Road–Nawapara Road are improving access to key agricultural and mineral zones. While they serve larger economic purposes—reducing coal transport costs, improving logistics—they also pass through tribal areas, bringing in jobs, services, and connectivity to communities that have long remained excluded.

The government’s emphasis on sustainable planning, fast-tracked land acquisition, and linking tourism with logistics indicates a shift from piecemeal development to integrated regional growth. For Odisha’s tribal populations, who have for decades lived on the periphery of policy priorities, these rail projects represent more than infrastructure—they represent inclusion, dignity, and the first steps toward long-overdue socio-economic mobility.

As these tracks stretch across Odisha’s landscape, they are not just altering the geography—they are reshaping futures.