East Coast Railway (ECoR) confirmed that 240 km out of the 301 km Khurda Road-Bolangir line is now complete and functional. The Boudh-Purunakatak segment was approved following inspections conducted on 25 and 26 March. Senior ECoR officials accompanied the CRS during the assessment.

The railway is being developed from both Khurda Road and Bolangir ends to expedite the project. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has prioritised the project, which is vital for connecting remote Odisha.

ECoR general manager Parmeshwar Funkwal has been closely monitoring progress. Engine testing between Boudh and Purunakatak is complete. The newly developed Purunakatak-Champapur stretch includes nine major bridges, two road overbridges, 15 road underbridges, and 35 minor bridges.

Work on the remaining 62 km section between Purunakatak and Daspalla is advancing steadily and involves tunnel construction through forested and sanctuary areas. Once complete, this line is expected to transform regional connectivity and economic prospects in Odisha.