Railways Completes Odisha’s Longest Tunnel on Khurda-Balangir Line

Bhubaneswar: In a significant development for Odisha’s infrastructure, Indian Railways has successfully completed the construction breakthrough of a 4,185-metre-long tunnel under the Khurda Road–Balangir rail line project. Known as Tunnel T-4, this is the longest railway tunnel not only in the Khurda Road–Balangir corridor but also in the entire state of Odisha.

The breakthrough, also referred to as “daylighting,” took place on April 16 between Adenigarh and Charichhak stations in Boudh district. Officials from Indian Railways hailed the event as a major milestone in the ongoing Khurda Road–Balangir New Rail Line project.

As of now, 226 km of the 301 km long rail line has been commissioned. Operational sections include the stretch from Khurda Road to Daspalla and from Balangir to Purnakatak. The remaining 75 km segment between Daspalla and Purnakatak—which includes seven tunnels—is currently under active construction.

Railway authorities stated that the successful completion of Tunnel T-4 will expedite the remaining work and significantly contribute to the long-term vision of connecting Odisha’s coastal areas with its western hinterlands. The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity, promote seamless travel, and spur socio-economic development across the state.