Decade of Delay: Odisha's Tribal Districts Await Rail Connectivity

Odisha's tribal districts, Jeypore, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri, continue awaiting rail connectivity despite promises made through MoUs since 2016. BJD MP Muzibulla Khan criticized the lack of progress, warning against Railway Minister's visit if the projects remain stalled, highlighting the neglect and urging immediate action.

The long-awaited rail connectivity in Odisha's tribal districts of Jeypore, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri remains a distant dream, as highlighted by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Muzibulla Khan in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Addressing the house, Khan warned that his party would block the Railway Minister's visit to the state if the promised rail projects are not expedited.

The projects, detailed in two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed in 2016 with then Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu, have seen little progress. The Odisha government had committed to substantial investment in infrastructure, agreeing to fund large portions of the Jeypore-Nabarangpur and Jeypore-Malkangiri rail lines. Despite pledges for a 'double-engine' government to drive progress, the situation remains stagnant.

Emphasizing the historical neglect of the region, Khan expressed frustration that essential rail connectivity had yet to materialize, describing it as 'painful' that even limited advancements have stalled over the years. Pressing for urgent governmental action, Khan made a definitive case for accountability and immediate project initiation.

(With inputs from agencies.)