New Delhi, March 25: The Parlakhemundi railway station in Odisha has undergone a remarkable transformation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The station has been revitalized with vibrant colors, making it a bright and welcoming space for travelers. This renovation honors the contributions of Maharaja Gaur Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev, who played a pivotal role in promoting railways in Odisha. Before independence, he established Odisha’s first railway station, Parlakhemundi, using his own resources.
The renovated Parlakhemundi station continues to tell the story of the Maharaja’s contributions. Historical records indicate that this royal railway line was Odisha’s first ‘light rail.’ The central government included Parlakhemundi in the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, leading to its significant upgrade. Modern amenities have been introduced, including a 12-meter-long foot overbridge and lifts for differently-abled individuals. Stone sculptures representing Gautam Buddha, the Ashoka Chakra, and various dance forms have also been installed at the station.
Parlakhemundi railway station stands as a proud symbol of Odisha’s railway history, culture, and revenue. In 1914, the annual Uta Conference was held here, attracting many prominent figures from various parts of Odisha via rail. Discussions about forming a separate province for Odisha took place at this station. Given its connection to the freedom struggle, several organizations are working to establish a dedicated museum here. Many believe that the old ticket counters, goods warehouse, station master’s office, and other historical elements should be preserved in the museum.
The station’s 125-year journey is a significant chapter in Odisha’s railway development. Looking back, Maharaja Gaur Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev founded Parlakhemundi railway station in 1899, located 40 kilometers from Nuapada. This marked the beginning of a long, non-extended gauge railway line known as the Parlakhemundi Light Railway (PLR), which was Odisha’s first railway line.
The construction of this station and railway line was financed by the Maharaja’s treasury, costing around 700,000 rupees at the time. Initially, the railway line was not profitable, but it gradually became beneficial. Later, the Maharaja’s son, Krishna Chandra Gajapati, extended the railway line to Gunupur. In 1934, the PLR was incorporated into the Bengal-Nagpur Northeast Railway. Several surveys were conducted to widen the gauge, leading to the line’s closure from 2004 to 2011. Ultimately, the railway reopened in 2011.
For public convenience, W. Taylor, a representative of Maharaja Gaur Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev, wrote to the British government on October 19, 1897, requesting a survey for the new railway line through the Ganjam district collector. This survey was conducted from the Maharaja’s capital to the main railway station at Nuapada, located near Chennai (then Madras). After the survey, he requested the construction of a 25-mile primary railway line. However, the estimated railway line from Nuapada to Parlakhemundi was only 30 inches wide, extending only to the Suladhara River valley.
This project was completed in 1899 within 13 months, with the Maharaja receiving permission from the Indian government in 1898. The section was inaugurated on December 30 of the same year with the first service attended by the collector, the Maharaja, and some local Europeans. Passenger and freight services began in April 1900. Under the supervision of British civil engineer J.R. Sandford, the railway was constructed. The PLR was a significant initiative in Odisha, bringing modern transportation and communication to the people.
Passenger Prabhakumar Guru remarked, “The station’s condition was previously very poor. Senior citizens and patients faced difficulties getting to the station and boarding trains. Now, Parlakhemundi railway station feels like an airport. It offers all the amenities found in major cities.”
Santosh Kumar Maharana, a member of the East Coast Railway in Bhubaneswar, stated, “Parlakhemundi station has been beautifully constructed under the Amrit Bharat Railway Station Scheme. Excellent facilities are available for the differently-abled, patients, and elderly individuals.”
Nrisangh Charan Patnaik expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the station’s development, stating, “Under Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s leadership, the station has been beautifully upgraded. The facilities here are appealing to the public, and there are many possibilities ahead.”
Passenger Arunima Sahu added, “The facilities at Parlakhemundi station have improved significantly. With more trains stopping here, it has become easier for passengers to travel. The platform now has comfortable seating and fans, providing relief while waiting.”
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