Khordha-Bolangir Rail project achieves key success with T3 tunnel breakthrough

The Khordha Road-Bolangir New Rail Line Project has achieved a major milestone with the successful breakthrough of tunnel number T3, located between Buguda and Banigochha in Odisha’s Nayagarh district.

This tunnel, with a length of 2,620 meters and a 2-degree curve, has now completed the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) excavation. The breakthrough, or ‘daylighting’, was successfully achieved on January 13, marking an important achievement in the construction of this crucial public centric Rail Line Project.

Tunnel number T3 is the longest tunnel in Nayagarh district and the second longest in the entire Khordha Road-Bolangir ongoing rail line project. 

All About Tunnel Number T3:

The tunnel’s excavation employed state-of-the-art technologies and machines, designed to navigate the challenging and rugged terrain of the Eastern Ghats. This landmark achievement will play a crucial role in connecting the eastern and western parts of Odisha, boosting the region’s transportation and economic potential.

Also Read: Major milestone for East Coast Railway, 35-ton steel girders installed in 3 hours in Bhubaneswar

Sharing the success on X (formerly known as Twitter) Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw wrote, "A milestone showcasing engineering excellence in challenging terrains: A breakthrough has been achieved in the 2.6 km-long Tunnel T3 (with a 2-degree curve) between Buguda and Baniguchha stations on the Khurda-Bolangir section in Odisha."

A milestone showcasing engineering excellence in challenging terrains: A breakthrough has been achieved in the 2.6 km-long Tunnel T3 (with a 2-degree curve) between Buguda and Baniguchha stations on the Khurda-Bolangir section in Odisha. pic.twitter.com/B6bU2Xfmdg

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 13, 2025

Tackling Major Challenges in Tunnel Construction:

The Khordha Road-Bolangir Rail Line Project, which spans 301 kilometers, presents numerous engineering and logistical challenges, particularly in the construction of tunnels. The project includes seven tunnels within a 75-kilometer stretch, all located between Daspalla and Purunakatak. The construction of these tunnels, particularly through the difficult terrain of the Eastern Ghats, has been one of the most complex aspects of the project.

Among these tunnels, Tunnel Number 7, part of the longest at 4.885 kilometers, has already been successfully completed, with other breakthroughs in Tunnel Number 1, Tunnel Number 3, and more. The tunnels are being constructed using the latest techniques to manage complex geological conditions, including varying soil densities and rock formations.

Key Tunnel Facts:

• Seven tunnels under construction, with a total length of 12.76 km.
• Tunnel No T3, located between Buguda and Banigochha, is 2,620 meters long with a 2-degree curve.
• The longest tunnel spans 4.885 kilometers, located near Adhenigarh, including a 700-meter escape tunnel for safety.
• Breakthroughs have been completed successfully in four of the seven tunnels to date.

Strategic Approach for Timely Completion:

The Khordha Road-Bolangir Rail Line Project, crucial for improving regional connectivity, has already seen significant portions completed. A total of 215 kilometers of the rail line have been completed, including 105.8 kilometers from Khordha Road to Daspalla and 109 kilometers from Bolangir to Purunakatak. The remaining sections, including the stretch from Purunakatak to Adhenigarh, are progressing and are expected to be completed in the coming months.

Read More: Maha Kumbh Mela: Nearly 1 Lakh pilgrims from Odisha to be facilitated by East Coast Railway

Once completed, this rail line will drastically reduce travel time between Bhubaneswar and Bolangir, contributing to the socio-economic development of the region by improving access to education, healthcare and markets.

The Khordha Road-Bolangir Rail Line Project is a critical infrastructure initiative by Indian Railways aimed at improving connectivity in Odisha. Once completed, the rail line will boost economic development, enhance trade and significantly reduce travel time, benefiting both passengers and freight movement.