Bhubaneswar, Jun 1: A major achievement has been recorded in the construction of the Khordha Road-Balangir railway line, as the final tunnel, Tunnel T2, has been successfully excavated.

Located between Buguda and Dashapalla in Nayagarh district, this marks the completion of all seven tunnels in the strategic railway corridor.

Tunnel T2, with a length of 1,775 meters, is the second-longest in Nayagarh and plays a vital role in overcoming the challenging Eastern Ghat terrain. Constructed using the advanced New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), this tunnel showcases cutting-edge engineering, ensuring stability and safety in the mountainous region.

This accomplishment signals remarkable progress, with the Khordha Road-Balangir railway project spanning 301 kilometers, significantly improving rail connectivity across Odisha.

The project has already been operational for 106 km between Khordha Road and Dashapalla and 120 km between Balangir and Purunakot. With the successful completion of all tunnels, the remaining 75 km segment from Purunakot to Adenigada is now closer to realization.

All Seven Tunnels Now Completed

With the completion of Tunnel T2, the excavation of all seven tunnels along the 75-kilometer under-construction railway route between Dashapalla and Purunakot has been successfully accomplished.

Key Tunnel Statistics:
Total Tunnel Length: 12.76 km

Nayagarh District -- T1: 800 meters; T2: 1,775 meters; T3: 2,620 meters (with a 2-degree curve).

Boudh District -- T4: 4,183 meters + 700-meter escape tunnel; T5: 317 meters; T6: 290.75 meters; T7: 1,975 meters.

Engineering Feat Amidst Natural Challenges

The construction of these tunnels involved overcoming multiple complex challenges, including:

Geographical & Engineering Challenges:
- Highly variable soil and rock conditions
- Multiple tunnels requiring precise curved alignment
- Dual-end excavation to meet deadlines

Environmental & Terrain Challenges:
- Sections located near wildlife zones
- Environmentally sensitive construction practices
- Noise and vibration control measures

Despite these obstacles, the project has achieved steady and impactful progress, bringing full connectivity closer to reality.

Strategic Progress Towards Full Connectivity

The Khordha Road - Balangir railway line spans 301 kilometers, with key sections already operational:
Completed: Khordha Road to Dashapalla - 106 km; Balangir to Purunakot - 120 km.
Ongoing Work: Purunakot to Adenigada - 75 km remaining.

The completion of this final stretch will establish seamless rail connectivity between Eastern and Western Odisha, benefiting both passenger and freight transport.

This railway project is set to transform Odisha’s transportation landscape, fostering economic growth and regional development.

Impact on Odisha's Connectivity and Economy

The completion of this railway line is expected to:
- Reduce travel time between Bhubaneswar and Balangir.
- Enhance access to education, healthcare, and markets.
- Boost regional trade and economic development.
- Improve freight movement across Odisha and beyond.

The Khordha Road-Balangir railway project stands as a transformational infrastructure initiative for Odisha, bridging gaps in transportation and paving the way for future economic growth.

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