Not Bhubaneswar but this southern district has the largest railway station in Odisha; know details

The vibrant state of Odisha, known for its extensive railway network, has its largest railway station not in the capital city of Bhubaneswar but in the southern district of Rayagada. The Rayagada Railway Station, a crucial transport hub in the East Coast Railway Zone, plays a vital role in connecting Odisha to other parts of India and here’s how:

Largest Railway Station in Odisha:

Rayagada Railway Station holds the title of the largest railway station in the state. It features Platform No. 3, which stretches 910 meters, making it the longest platform in Odisha, the sixth longest in India, and the seventh longest in the world.

The station has five platforms and handles approximately 61 trains daily, including long-distance express services like the Hirakhand Express and Samata Express.

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Strategic Importance and Connectivity: 

Serving as a key rail junction, Rayagada connects Odisha with over 15 states and major cities such as Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and Howrah.

The station’s triple electric-line infrastructure supports a significant volume of freight movement, particularly for mineral exports from the region. Additionally, the Vizianagaram-Parvatipuram railway line, which dates back to 1908, further enhances Rayagada’s historical and logistical significance.

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Recent Developments and Expansion:

The railway station is undergoing a major expansion with the establishment of a new railway division under the East Coast Railway (ECoR).

In January 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a divisional office, allocating Rs 107 crore for modern facilities, including a divisional railway manager (DRM) office and staff housing. The new division will oversee 680 km of railway lines, boosting connectivity in Odisha’s mineral-rich regions.

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Tourist Attractions and Scenic Rail Routes:

Rayagada is not only a transport hub but also a gateway to scenic railway routes. The Koraput-Rayagada railway line offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats, passing through 36 tunnels and 76 bridges.

Additionally, the Maliguda tunnel, the fourth-longest broad-gauge tunnel in India at 4.4 km, enhances the travel experience. Tourists visiting Rayagada can explore attractions such as Maa Majhighariani Temple, Rameswara Temple, and the region’s tribal heritage.