Chhattisgarh Expands Rail Network with Historic Train Arrival in Ravghat

Bilaspur, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Railways has taken a significant step in expanding Chhattisgarh’s rail network by inaugurating the Tadoki-Ravghat and Abhanpur-Kurud broad gauge lines. This milestone event took place on October 20, 2026, in Bilaspur, marking the first time a train has reached Ravghat since India’s independence. The new passenger rail services between Ravghat-Raipur and Raipur-Kurud were also launched, alongside the foundation stone for an electric locomotive maintenance facility in Raipur.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw participating via video conference. The arrival of the train in Ravghat is a historic achievement, connecting the region’s remote southern areas to the national rail network.

The newly operational 95-kilometer Dallirajhara-Ravghat rail line, built at a cost of ₹1,628 crores, has opened the Tadoki-Ravghat section of 17.5 kilometers. This connection will enhance access to education, healthcare, employment, and trade for local residents. It will also expedite the transportation of iron ore from the Ravghat area, supporting the Bhilai steel plant and the broader iron and steel industry.

Chief Minister Sai expressed gratitude on behalf of the state’s three crore residents to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Vaishnaw. He noted that Chhattisgarh has received over ₹7,000 crores in the railway budget this year, reflecting a continuous emphasis on infrastructure, rail connectivity, and passenger amenities.

These projects are expected to accelerate industrial, commercial, and socio-economic development in remote areas. Minister Vaishnaw congratulated the people of Chhattisgarh and highlighted several ongoing and completed projects, including the Dallirajhara-Ravghat rail line, gauge conversion of the Kendi-Abhanpur-Rajim-Dhamtari section, and multi-tracking initiatives.

Work is also ongoing for the Kharsia-Parmalakasa double rail line. The 22-kilometer Abhanpur-Kurud section of the gauge conversion project has been completed, enhancing travel options to Raipur, boosting regional trade, and providing convenience for daily commuters. The remaining work on the Kurud-Dhamtari section is expected to be completed soon.

Passengers traveling on the new Raipur-Ravghat rail service will pay a fare of just ₹55, making it an affordable transport option for students, youth, and daily travelers. The proposed electric locomotive maintenance facility in Raipur will be capable of servicing up to 300 high-horsepower engines, increasing engine availability to meet growing freight demands and strengthening rail operations.

These initiatives will significantly expand rail connectivity, passenger services, and economic opportunities in Chhattisgarh.