Indian Railways has unveiled the "Janjatiya Gaurav Corridor," an innovative project spearheaded by Minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronic & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw. This transformative initiative is geared towards enhancing rail infrastructure and connectivity in tribal-dominated regions across India. Diverging from the conventional approach of region-specific projects, Indian Railways is adopting a zonal railway-wise strategy to address connectivity gaps that transcend administrative boundaries.

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that the "Janjatiya Gaurav Corridor" aims to extend rail networks to previously underserved areas. The budget allocation for the fiscal year 2023-24 is an impressive $9.4 billion. This substantial funding will facilitate the development of new rail lines within the corridor, with a particular focus on regions in Odisha.

The initiative entails meticulous planning through Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), which involve consultations with key stakeholders such as state governments, tribal communities, rail users, and organisations. These reports evaluate project viability based on factors like traffic projections and socio-economic benefits.

Over the past three years, a total of 32 surveys, comprising 19 new lines and 13 doubling projects, have been completed in Odisha. These surveys lay the groundwork for upcoming rail projects, showcasing meticulous preparation and planning.

Minister Vaishnaw underscored that projects within the "Janjatiya Gaurav Corridor" and other new line projects adhere to criteria such as economic viability, bridging last-mile gaps, establishing missing links and alternative routes, reducing congestion, and addressing socio-economic considerations. The project sanctioning process remains adaptable, accounting for funding availability, ongoing projects, and evolving priorities.

The announcement of the "Janjatiya Gaurav Corridor" was made by Minister Vaishnaw in response to a Lok Sabha query. This initiative resonates with the government's commitment to inclusive development and enhanced connectivity, particularly in areas inhabited by tribal communities. As the rail network expands to encompass these underserved areas, it is poised to trigger positive socio-economic transformations, driving progress and prosperity within these communities.