President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to Odisha marked a significant milestone in the state’s development journey, with the inauguration of six major projects totaling a staggering INR 6,400 crore. This ambitious undertaking underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, bolstering economic growth, and improving the lives of Odisha’s citizens. The centerpiece of this initiative was the launch of three new railway lines, promising a transformative impact on regional transportation and logistics.
The new railway lines – Bangriposi-Gorumahisani, Buramara-Chakulia, and Badampahar-Keonjhargarh – will connect crucial districts, opening up new avenues for trade, commerce, and industrial development. Of particular note is the 60-km Buramara-Chakulia route, connecting Mayurbhanj district in Odisha to East Singhbhum in Jharkhand. With a projected cost of INR 1,639 crore, this line will be instrumental in facilitating the movement of goods, especially from the mineral-rich regions it serves, fostering economic prosperity in the area. This project is expected to significantly reduce transportation times and costs, boosting efficiency and competitiveness for local businesses.
Beyond the railway projects, President Murmu also laid the foundation stone for three other vital development initiatives in Rairangpur. These include a state-of-the-art Tribal Research and Development Center, a much-needed new airport at Dandbose, and a modern sub-divisional hospital. These additions directly address critical gaps in education, healthcare, and infrastructure within Odisha’s tribal communities, aiming to improve access to essential services and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. The Tribal Research and Development Center will further support the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the region.
President Murmu’s Odisha visit extended beyond infrastructure development. She also participated in the Indian Navy Day celebration at the Blue Flag Beach in Puri on December 4th, commemorating the Indian Navy’s vital role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests. Furthermore, she graced the 40th convocation of the Odisha University of Agricultural Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar on December 5th, congratulating the graduating students and acknowledging their contributions to the agricultural sector.
The President’s five-day tour, which included prominent figures such as Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, underscores the collaborative effort towards Odisha’s progress. This significant investment in infrastructure and development signifies a broader governmental strategy aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive growth across various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, education, and tribal welfare. The projects launched promise a brighter future for Odisha, fostering economic opportunities and improving the well-being of its people.
