President Droupadi Murmu's Special Train Journey in Odisha
President's Journey from Bhubaneswar to Berhampur
On August 4, President Droupadi Murmu embarked on a 170-kilometer train journey from Bhubaneswar to Berhampur in Ganjam district, marking the second day of her visit to Odisha. Officials confirmed that she traveled aboard the 'Presidential Special' train, accompanied by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi.
The 'Presidential Special' is an opulent rail car featuring air-conditioned sleeping quarters, a dining and meeting area, as well as a kitchen. An official noted that the journey could take over two hours to cover the distance. He added, "The arrangements for the President's train travel were made considering the weather department's rain forecasts."
The train was scheduled to arrive at Berhampur station at 11:10 AM. To ensure the President's safety, two additional trains were deployed ahead of and behind the special train. Another official mentioned that stringent security measures were in place at both Bhubaneswar and Berhampur railway stations, including bomb disposal squads, canine units, and thorough baggage screening systems. Personnel from the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF), along with commandos from various central agencies, were also on board.
Approximately 15 platoons of police officers, each consisting of 30 personnel, were stationed at Bhubaneswar railway station. Similar arrangements were made in Berhampur. President Murmu arrived in Odisha on Monday for a three-day visit.
Upon reaching Berhampur, she is expected to visit the Khandhuni Devi Temple in Taptapani for prayers. District Collector V. Kirti Vasan stated that the areas where the President will be visiting in the district have been declared 'No-Fly Zones.' Taptapani is renowned for its natural hot springs and is a picturesque location surrounded by lush forests.