Good news for travellers and pilgrims! The construction of the Puri-Konark rail line is gaining momentum, with Indian Railways moving ahead on a new coastal connectivity project in Odisha. The rail link will connect the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri with the famous Konark Sun Temple, improving connectivity between two of the state’s most visited destinations and giving a major boost to tourism.
New 32-Km Rail Corridor To Connect Puri & Konark
According to India Today, the new 32-km rail corridor will connect Puri and Konark, two of Odisha’s biggest tourist and pilgrimage destinations. At present, travellers mainly rely on road transport between the two towns. The upcoming rail link is expected to make travel faster, smoother, and more convenient.
It is to be noted that the Puri-Konark rail line is also part of a larger coastal railway network being developed between Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark. The Railway Board approved the project in February 2024, and it was later granted Special Railway Project status.
According to reports, the new rail line is expected to boost tourism and business activity across Odisha’s coastal region. It will also improve connectivity by offering a direct travel route between the revered Jagannath Temple and the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple.
Also Read: Odisha Set To Become A Hub For Water Sports; Plans Adventurous Activities In THESE 5 Districts
Here’s All You Need To Know About This
According to India Today, the new Puri-Konark railway line is expected to support local economies in smaller villages along the route by improving connectivity and transport access. Reports also state that the final railway alignment has been planned carefully to avoid forest regions and eco-sensitive areas near the Balukhand sanctuary, concerns that had delayed earlier proposals for the project.
As for now, the East Coast Railway has begun the land acquisition process for the rail line. Around 521.48 acres of land will reportedly be acquired for the project.
Also Read: After 122 Years, ASI To Remove British-Era Sand From Odisha’s Konark Sun Temple; Here’s Why
Stay tuned to Curly Tales for more information!
Cover Image Courtesy: Facebook/Vedic Temples & Canva Pro/Ajay Thakor (representative image)
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What is the Puri-Konark rail line project?
The project is a new 32-km railway corridor that will connect Puri and Konark in Odisha.