Chhattisgarh railway network to expand with new lines and corridors

Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced a significant expansion of the railway network in Chhattisgarh. Several projects have been sanctioned or approved by the Cabinet to enhance connectivity across the state.

Key infrastructure developments include the construction of a fourth railway line from Katni and Shahdol in Madhya Pradesh to Pendra Road, a third line from Pendra Road to Bilaspur, and a third line from Champa to Korba. Additionally, two new major corridors have been sanctioned: one from Kharsia through Naya Raipur to Parmalkasa, and another from Katghora to Dongargarh. These corridors are expected to run north and south of the existing Jharsuguda–Bilaspur–Gondia route, potentially allowing for at least 100 additional trains to operate.

New services have also been launched to connect remote regions. A new line has been constructed from Dalli Rajhara to Rowghat, providing direct rail connectivity from the North Bastar Kanker district to Raipur. Furthermore, gauge conversion on the line from Raipur through Abhanpur to Kurud has enabled a new train service between Kurud and Raipur, which is expected to be extended to Dhamtari soon.