Government Prioritizes 38 Rail Projects to Boost Coal Transport Efficiency

The government has prioritized 38 key rail projects to enhance coal logistics. These initiatives aim to improve rail connectivity, ensure timely coal supply, and reduce logistics costs. Recently approved projects in Odisha include the Sardega-Bhalumuda double line and the Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line, which promise significant efficiency gains.

The government announced on Thursday that it has identified 38 priority rail projects under the coal logistics plan. These projects will be expedited in close collaboration with the Ministry of Railways.

Targeted at improving rail connectivity, the projects are crucial for ensuring timely coal supply and reducing logistics costs, enhancing the overall efficiency of coal transportation across the country.

Recently, the government has given the green light to two major rail projects in Odisha -- the Sardega-Bhalumuda double line and the Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line -- according to the coal ministry.

The 37.24-km Sardega-Bhalumuda new double line will traverse various coal blocks in the IB Valley and Mand-Raigarh Coalfield, facilitating coal evacuation from mines operated by Coal India's Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd and several private mines.

This strategic project will shorten the transportation distance to power plants in North India from Sardega, thereby boosting efficiency.

Similarly, the 138.32-km Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road new single line will improve coal evacuation from the Talcher Coalfield, offering a direct and shorter route to Nagpur and western regions.

The project is expected to substantially cut logistics costs and enhance the overall efficiency of coal transportation from the Talcher region.

(With inputs from agencies.)