Indian Railways to restore key train stoppages in Odisha from September 1; check details

Indian Railways has announced the phased restoration of stoppages at several important stations across Odisha and neighbouring states, beginning September 1, 2025. The decision follows persistent public demand and requests from elected representatives to improve accessibility at smaller but significant stations.

Notably, many of these affected trains connect pilgrimage centres, industrial hubs, and border towns. As such, the reinstatement is expected to ease pressure on road transport and improve last-mile connectivity for smaller stations.

Stoppages to Resume in Phases

According to East Coast Railway (ECoR), the following halts will be restored:

From September 1, 2025:

• Puri–Shalimar Dhauli Express (12822) – Markona

• Titlagarh–Howrah Ispat Express (12872) – Bagdehi

• Jagdalpur–Howrah Express (18006) – Bisra and Rajkharsawan Junction

• Gunupur–Rourkela Rajyarani Express (18118) – Bagdehi

• Puri–Yog Nagari Rishikesh Utkal Express (18477) – Basta and Bisra

From September 2, 2025:

• Puri–Shalimar Sri Jagannath Express (18410) – Rupsa Junction

• Puri–Patna Baidyanathdham Express (18449) – Burnpur

From September 5 and 7, 2025:

• Visakhapatnam–Digha Express (22874) – Jaleswar (from September 5)

• Puri–Digha Express (22890) – Jaleswar (from September 7)

Railways has advised travelers to take note of the revised stoppages and plan journeys accordingly. The restored halts will be reflected in online timetables and ticketing systems in a phased manner.

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Wider Rail Expansion in the Region

Separately, according to earlier reports, the Rourkela–Howrah Vande Bharat Express has been approved for expansion from 8 coaches to 16. The upgrade is part of a nationwide Railway Board initiative to increase capacity on high-demand corridors, prompted by consistently high occupancy rates.