BJD MP Sasmit Patra Urges Creation of Unified Odisha Railway Zone

Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Sasmit Patra has written to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, urging the creation of a unified Odisha Railway Zone amid concerns over the recent reorganisation of the Waltair Division.

In his letter, Patra stated that the restructuring has led to fragmentation of railway routes that historically served Odisha, affecting operational coordination and long-term infrastructure planning within the state.

He highlighted key railway corridors such as the Koraput–Kirandul (KK) line and the Naupada–Gunupur section, noting that their division across multiple railway jurisdictions has created administrative challenges in freight movement, maintenance, and service delivery.

The MP also raised concerns over the placement of the Palasa–Ichchapuram stretch under the South Coast Railway, describing it as a crucial route along the Howrah–Chennai main line for both passenger and freight traffic. He argued that such arrangements dilute Odisha’s role in planning and prioritisation of important routes.

According to Patra, the restructuring has resulted in overlapping jurisdictions between the East Coast Railway and the South Coast Railway, leading to coordination issues and affecting seamless connectivity.

He further pointed out that intra-state rail connectivity, especially routes connecting regions like Paralakhemundi and Gunupur, often requires movement across different railway zones, resulting in operational inefficiencies.

Reiterating his demand, Patra called for a dedicated Odisha-centric railway zone, stating that it would ensure better integration of railway infrastructure, improve administrative efficiency, and enable equitable reinvestment of revenue generated within the state.

He also referred to earlier discussions involving former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who had previously advocated for a unified railway zone for Odisha.

The MP has urged the Ministry of Railways to reconsider the current restructuring framework and ensure better coordination in railway planning for the state’s long-term development.