New Delhi: In sync with the target of achieving net zero carbon emitter by 2030, the Indian Railways has 10 per cent electrified existing broad gauge network of Odisha.

The existing broad gauge network of Odisha is 2,822 route kilometre, which is 100 per cent electrified, resulting in saving on account of reduced line haul cost - about 2.5 times lower, heavier haulage capacity and increased sectional capacity, said the Ministry of Railways.

It also reduced operating and maintenance cost of electric locomotives, energy efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation with reduced dependence on imported crude oil, saving of foreign exchange. Further, a new broad gauge network shall be sanctioned along with electrification in sync with Railways’ policy of 100 per cent electrified network.

Odisha state’s territory falls in the jurisdiction of East Coast, South Eastern and South East Central Railways. Some of the major railway stations in Odisha are Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Sambalpur, Bhadrak, Rourkela, and Jharsuguda.

The railway network plays an important role in the transportation of minerals, agricultural products, and other goods from Odisha to other parts of the country. First railway line in Odisha was constructed between Cuttack - Khurda Road - Puri in 1897.

Some of the prestigious trains of Odisha state are: Howrah-Puri Express, Konark Express, Coromandel Express, Hirakud Express, Visakha Express, and Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express. These trains provide convenient connectivity to various parts of the state and other major cities in India. /BI/