Over Rs 275 crore to redevelop key railway stations in Odisha's KBK region

The Indian Railways has launched a transformative infrastructure initiative, earmarking over Rs 275 crore to modernise 13 railway stations in Odisha’s KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region.

The project, part of the national Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, seeks to overhaul rail connectivity, boost passenger amenities, and drive socio-economic growth in one of the state’s most underserved areas, stated reports.

Stations and Funding Breakdown

The initiative involves the redevelopment of thirteen stations across the KBK districts, with Rayagada receiving the highest allocation of Rs 41.4 crore.

Major investments include Titlagarh (Rs 35.79 crore), Kantabanji (Rs 33.87 crore), Koraput (Rs 21.2 crore), Kesinga (Rs 20.85 crore), Muniguda (Rs 20.16 crore), Bhawanipatna (Rs 18.83 crore), Bolangir (Rs 18.01 crore), Jeypore (Rs 17.94 crore), Harishankar Road (Rs 16.66 crore), Khariar Road (Rs 16.25 crore), and Damanjodi (Rs 14.46 crore).

Reportedly, the Gunupur station is also included, though its detailed cost estimates and scope remain under finalisation.

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Core Upgrades and Modernisation

The redevelopment focuses on four pillars: enhanced infrastructure, sustainability, passenger-centric amenities, and inclusive design.

Infrastructure Modernisation: Stations will feature redesigned buildings with expanded waiting lounges, upgraded ticketing counters, and improved platform surfaces.

Key additions include second entry points at Titlagarh, Kantabanji, and Harishankar Road to reduce congestion, and extended foot-over bridges (FOBs) at Koraput, Kesinga, and Damanjodi. Rayagada will gain a 142-meter FOB connecting its platforms.

Sustainability Initiatives: Solar energy systems, water conservation infrastructure, and sewage treatment plants will be installed. Stations like Bolangir and Muniguda will incorporate green building techniques, while others, including Titlagarh and Kantabanji, will deploy rainwater harvesting and waste management systems.

Passenger Amenities: High-speed Wi-Fi, digital signage, GPS-enabled clocks, and coach indication boards will enhance travel convenience. Modern toilets, lifts, and dedicated facilities for differently-abled passengers (Divyangjan) are prioritised.

Safety and Accessibility: Platform surfaces will be raised and resurfaced for safety, while widened FOBs with ramps and lifts will improve mobility.

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Regional and Economic Implications

The KBK region, rich in mineral resources and cultural heritage but historically marginalised, stands to benefit significantly.

Improved rail infrastructure is expected to boost tourism, ease regional mobility, and create employment opportunities during and after construction. Enhanced connectivity will link remote towns like Damanjodi and Muniguda to urban centres, facilitating trade and investment.

Urban integration plans include redesigned parking zones, smoother approach roads, and dedicated pick-up/drop-off lanes to ease traffic around stations.

Notably, the phased implementation, set to span two years, will prioritise timely execution, with work already underway at multiple sites.