Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V Somanna, conducted an inspection of the redevelopment works underway at Puri Railway Station, which is being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

During the visit, the Minister reiterated the Centre’s focus on modernising the country’s railway infrastructure and noted that Odisha received an allocation of Rs 105.99 billion in the 2025 railway budget—a 12.5-fold increase compared to the 2009–14 period.

At present, 59 railway stations across Odisha are being redeveloped with a combined investment of Rs 23.79 billion. In addition, railway projects worth over Rs 800 billion are under execution in the state, he said.

Somanna also pointed to the significant growth in rail infrastructure over the past decade, highlighting improvements in new line construction, track doubling, and passenger amenities. He stated that this progress has far exceeded the achievements of earlier years.

He noted the launch of modern trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, now operating in key routes across Odisha, has further improved regional connectivity and catalysed development.

The Minister said the revamped Puri station will provide world-class passenger facilities, including better access, modern waiting halls, lifts and escalators, executive lounges, eco-friendly features, and stalls under the ‘One Station One Product’ initiative.

Somanna was joined by B S Rajkumar, Additional General Manager, East Coast Railway; H S Bajwa, Divisional Railway Manager, Khurda Road Division; and A G Srinivas, Chief Administrative Officer (Construction), along with other senior officials during the inspection.

The redevelopment of Puri station aims to enhance the travel experience for pilgrims, tourists, and local commuters, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming Indian Railways into a modern and efficient transport network.

News source: PIB