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Railways Completes Odisha’s Longest Tunnel on Khurda–Balangir Line

2025-04-23

Indian Railways has completed the construction of Tunnel T-4, the longest tunnel on the Khurda Road–Balangir railway line, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s railway infrastructure. The 4,185-metre tunnel connects Adenigarh and Charichhak in Boudh district and is now the longest in the state.

Railway officials confirmed the successful breakthrough of the tunnel on 16 April, an event referred to as "daylighting", indicating full excavation from one end to the other. The Khurda Road–Balangir rail line spans 301 kilometres, of which 226 kilometres have been completed. Existing operations run between Khurda Road and Daspalla, and from Balangir to Purnakatak. The remaining 75-kilometre stretch includes seven tunnels, with Tunnel T-4 being the most technically challenging.

Authorities emphasised the project's strategic importance in linking Odisha's coastal and western regions. They stated that its completion will aid regional integration and spur economic development through improved transport accessibility. The rail project has been progressing in phases, and the breakthrough of Tunnel T-4 is expected to accelerate work across the remaining sections.

Source: Odisha TV