Rayagada Railway Station: Odisha’s Largest and Key Transport Hub

Rayagada: Odisha’s largest railway station, Rayagada Railway Station, plays a crucial role in the state’s railway network, surpassing the capital city’s Bhubaneswar station in size and connectivity. Located in the southern district of Rayagada, this major transport hub under the East Coast Railway (ECoR) Zone significantly enhances Odisha’s rail infrastructure

Rayagada Railway Station holds the distinction of being the largest in the state. Its Platform No. 3, stretching 910 meters, is the longest in Odisha, the sixth longest in India, and the seventh longest in the world.

The station operates five platforms and handles approximately 61 trains daily, including key long-distance services like the Hirakhand Express and Samata Express.

Serving as a critical junction, Rayagada connects Odisha to over 15 states and major cities like Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and Howrah. The station’s triple electric-line infrastructure facilitates high-volume freight transport, particularly for mineral exports from Odisha’s resource-rich regions.

Additionally, the historic Vizianagaram-Parvatipuram railway line, established in 1908, enhances Rayagada’s logistical significance, making it a key point in the national railway network.

A major expansion is underway at Rayagada Railway Station with the establishment of a new railway division under ECoR. In January 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a divisional office, allocating ₹107 crore for modern facilities, including a Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) office and staff housing.

Once completed, the new division will oversee 680 km of railway lines, significantly improving connectivity in Odisha’s mineral-rich areas and boosting rail operations in the state.

Rayagada is also known for its picturesque railway routes. The Koraput-Rayagada railway line offers breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats, passing through 36 tunnels and 76 bridges.

Additionally, the Maliguda tunnel, India’s fourth-longest broad-gauge railway tunnel at 4.4 km, enhances the travel experience along this route.

Tourists visiting Rayagada can explore popular attractions such as Maa Majhighariani Temple, Rameswara Temple, and the region’s rich tribal heritage.

With its growing significance in Odisha’s railway network, Rayagada Railway Station is poised to become a major transport hub, contributing to the state’s economic and infrastructural development.