Chhattisgarh Enhances Rail Connectivity with New Lines and Services

Bilaspur, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Chhattisgarh is set to improve its rail connectivity significantly with the inauguration of the Tadoki-Rawghat and Abhanpur-Kurud broad gauge rail lines. The event took place on October 20, 2026, in Bilaspur, attended by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Alongside the inauguration, new passenger train services on the Rawghat-Raipur and Raipur-Kurud routes were also launched.

The establishment of a new electric locomotive maintenance facility in Raipur was announced during the event. Union Minister Vaishnaw participated via video conferencing, marking a historic achievement as rail connectivity reaches Rawghat for the first time since India’s independence. This development is expected to link remote areas of South Chhattisgarh to the broader rail network, enhancing regional connectivity and providing better travel options for residents.

Chief Minister Baghel expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Vaishnaw for their commitment to improving rail infrastructure in the state. He noted that Chhattisgarh has received over ₹7,000 crores in the current rail budget, facilitating the expansion of the rail network and passenger amenities.

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the government’s focus on developing rail infrastructure in Chhattisgarh under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He mentioned key projects, including the Dallirajhara-Rawghat rail line and the conversion of the Abhanpur-Rajim-Dhamtari line to broad gauge, which will enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activities in the state.

The new 95-kilometer rail line between Dallirajhara and Rawghat, costing ₹1,628 crores, is now complete. The addition of the 17.5-kilometer line from Tadoki to Rawghat will facilitate easier access to education, healthcare, employment, and business opportunities for residents of remote areas. Additionally, the transportation of iron ore from the Rawghat region will benefit the Bhilai Steel Plant and the country’s steel industry.

The conversion of the 22-kilometer rail line between Abhanpur and Kurud to broad gauge has also improved rail connectivity, making travel to Raipur more convenient for trade, regional development, and daily commuters. Work continues on the remaining sections of the Kurud-Dhamtari line.

Newly launched passenger services between Rawghat and Raipur, as well as Raipur and Kurud, will directly benefit students, professionals, farmers, and traders. The fare from Rawghat to Raipur is set at just ₹55, providing an affordable travel option for the public.

The state government believes that these rail projects and new passenger services will significantly enhance connectivity for remote areas in Chhattisgarh, promoting industrial, agricultural, and commercial activities, thereby contributing to the region’s socio-economic development.