Puri-Konark Rail Line Project Gains Momentum in Odisha
The Indian Railways is moving forward with the long-pending coastal Odisha connectivity plan, as the Puri-Konark rail line project gains momentum. This 32-km railway line will connect the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri with the historic Konark Sun Temple, two of Odisha's most visited destinations.
Improved Connectivity for Tourists and Pilgrims
The project aims to make travel easier for tourists and pilgrims who currently rely mainly on road transport between the two towns. As part of the larger coastal railway network planned between Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark, the Railway Board approved the project in February 2024, and it was later declared a Special Railway Project.
Land Acquisition Process Underway
- Around 521.48 acres of land will be acquired for the project, with 438.81 acres being private land spread across 36 villages and 82.67 acres being government land located in 33 villages.
- No forest land will be affected during construction, with the acquisition process being carried out under the Railway (Amendment) Act, 2008.
- Notifications have been issued across several villages in Puri and Gop tehsils, covering 108.43 acres of land in Puri tehsil and 242.14 acres in Gop tehsil.
Financial Allocation for 2026-27
The project has received an allocation of Rs 138.38 crore for the financial year 2026-27 to support land acquisition and construction work.
Expected Benefits for Tourism and Local Economies
- The Puri-Konark rail line project is expected to improve tourism and business activity along Odisha's coastal belt.
- The railway corridor will provide a direct travel option between the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple.
- The new railway line is also expected to support local economies in smaller villages located between Puri and Konark by improving access and movement.