Breakthrough in Khurda-Balangir Railway Project: Tunnel 7's Milestone

A breakthrough has been achieved in Tunnel 7 of the Khurda Road-Balangir railway project. Equipped with advanced safety systems, the tunnel enhances connectivity between Odisha's coastal and central regions, promising safer and efficient transportation.

The East Coast Railway has announced a significant breakthrough in the Khurda Road-Balangir new rail line project with the completion of a 1.9-km tunnel, dubbed 'Tunnel 7'. Located between Purunakatak and Charichhak in Boudh district, the tunnel is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and emergency systems to ensure passenger security.

The new tunnel boasts a high-capacity ventilation system incorporating jet fans for air quality maintenance, alongside a smoke control mechanism during emergencies. Additional systems include a firefighting framework, an automatic emergency lighting setup with power backup, public address systems, CCTV cameras, and an emergency call and linear heat detection system, ensuring comprehensive safety measures.

This completion signifies a critical milestone in enhancing connectivity between coastal Odisha and its central and western regions. Once operational, the Khurda Road-Balangir line will offer faster, safer rail travel, facilitating the seamless movement of passengers and the transportation of essential goods, according to railway officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)