The Khurda Road-Balangir New Rail Line Project has reached a major milestone with the successful breakthrough of Tunnel No. T3, located between Buguda and Banigochha in Odisha’s Nayagarh district. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) announced that the 2,620-meter-long tunnel, featuring a 2-degree curve, was excavated using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). The breakthrough, or daylighting, was achieved on January 13, marking significant progress in this critical infrastructure project. Tunnel No. T3 is the longest tunnel in Nayagarh district and the second-longest in the 301-kilometer Khurda Road-Balangir rail line. Constructed with advanced machinery to navigate the rugged terrain of the Eastern Ghats, the tunnel plays a vital role in connecting Odisha’s eastern and western regions, enhancing transportation and economic opportunities. The project involves the construction of seven tunnels over a 75-kilometer stretch between Daspalla and Purunakatak. The rugged terrain and geological complexities of the Eastern Ghats have posed significant challenges. Notable achievements include the completion of Tunnel No. 7, the longest at 4.885 kilometers, and successful breakthroughs in four of the seven tunnels, including Tunnel No. 3. Key statistics include: • Total tunnel length: 12.76 kilometers across seven tunnels. • Tunnel No. T3: 2,620 meters long with a 2-degree curve. • Longest tunnel: 4.885 kilometers near Adhenigarh, featuring a 700-meter escape tunnel for safety. The project has addressed various engineering, geological, and environmental hurdles, including: • Geological complexity requiring advanced tunneling techniques. • Environmental considerations to minimise the impact on wildlife sanctuaries. • High-precision engineering for curved tunnels, with five out of seven having significant curvature. • Simultaneous excavation from both ends to accelerate progress. Out of the 301 kilometers of rail line, 215 kilometers have been completed, including 105.8 kilometers from Khurda Road to Daspalla and 109 kilometers from Balangir to Purunakatak. The remaining section between Purunakatak and Adhenigarh is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed soon. Upon completion, the Khurda Road-Balangir rail line will significantly reduce travel time between Bhubaneswar and Balangir, boosting connectivity, trade, and socio-economic development. Improved access to education, healthcare, and markets will further benefit the region. “The Khurda Road-Balangir Rail Line Project is a landmark initiative by Indian Railways that promises to enhance passenger and freight movement while driving economic growth in Odisha,” the ECoR said. (odishabytes)