Nine Passenger and MEMU Trains Cancelled from January 16 to 19 Due to Power Block in Raipur Division
Raipur, January 15 Rail passengers in Chhattisgarh are likely to face significant inconvenience as the Raipur Railway Division has announced the cancellation of nine passenger and MEMU trains from January 16 to 19. This cancellation is attributed to a power block necessitated by infrastructure development work in the Baikunthpur-Siliyari section. Additionally, two other trains will be terminated before reaching their destination during the block period.
According to a notification issued by the Raipur Railway Division on Wednesday, the power block is being implemented to expedite the construction of a road underbridge, which involves the critical task of girder launching. The temporary suspension of train services is expected to impact passengers traveling between Raipur, Bilaspur, Korba, and Junagarh, leading to disruptions in daily commuting.
Trains Cancelled During the Block Period
The following trains have been cancelled due to the power block:
- January 16, 2025:
- Train No. 68728 Raipur-Bilaspur MEMU Special
- Train No. 68734 Bilaspur-Gevra Road MEMU Special
- Train No. 68733 Gevra Road-Bilaspur MEMU Special
- January 16 & 17, 2025:
- Train No. 68719 Bilaspur-Raipur MEMU Special
- January 17, 2025:
- Train No. 68727 Bilaspur-Raipur MEMU Special
- January 18, 2025:
- Train No. 58201 Bilaspur-Raipur Passenger Special
- Train No. 58207 Raipur-Junagarh Road Passenger Special
- January 19, 2025:
- Train No. 58208 Junagarh-Raipur Passenger Special
- Train No. 58280 Raipur-Korba Passenger Special
Additionally, on January 16, Train No. 68861/68862 Gondia-Jharsuguda-Gondia MEMU Special will be cancelled between Bilaspur-Gondia-Bilaspur.
Impact on Commuters
The temporary suspension of these trains is expected to cause major disruptions for daily passengers, especially those commuting between Raipur, Bilaspur, and Korba. Travelers have expressed concerns over the lack of alternative arrangements, particularly since many of these trains serve as vital links for working professionals and students in the region.
Local passenger associations have urged the railway authorities to provide alternate transportation or additional services during peak hours to mitigate the inconvenience faced by regular commuters.
Reason for Power Block
The Raipur Railway Division has clarified that the power block is essential for the completion of infrastructure development work in the Baikunthpur-Siliyari section. The primary objective is to facilitate the construction of a road underbridge, which will improve road connectivity and enhance safety for both rail and road users. Girder launching, a critical phase of the project, requires a complete halt in train operations to ensure the safety of workers and machinery.
Officials have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to complete the work within the stipulated time frame, minimizing the impact on train services.
Advisory for Passengers
Passengers planning to travel between January 16 and 19 are advised to check train schedules in advance and explore alternative travel options. The railway division has requested travelers to stay updated through official channels, including railway inquiry counters and the IRCTC portal.
For those whose trains have been partially cancelled or terminated early, refund policies will be applicable as per standard railway norms. Passengers are encouraged to visit the nearest railway station for assistance with refunds and rebookings.
