What Does the New Puri-Lalgarh Express Extension Mean for Rail Connectivity?

Enhancing Rail Connectivity Between Odisha and Rajasthan

Puri: A significant enhancement to inter-state rail connectivity has been realized with the recent extension of the Puri-Lalgarh-Puri Weekly Express to Sri Ganganagar, effectively linking the Bay of Bengal with the Thar Desert.

The inaugural journey of this extended service was flagged off by BJP MP Sambit Patra at the Puri Railway Station.

In an interview, he expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for facilitating this new train connection between Puri in Odisha and Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan.

Patra described this development as a historic milestone that now directly connects Puri with Sri Ganganagar, which was previously only accessible up to Lalgarh.

He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', as it connects two culturally rich regions, enhancing tourism, particularly for religious pilgrims visiting Lord Jagannath.

Patra also highlighted the remarkable growth in Odisha's railway infrastructure, noting that the previous UPA government allocated approximately Rs 892 crore for railway development from 2004 to 2014, while the current Modi administration has set aside around Rs 10,000 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, marking a substantial increase.

He referenced the patriotic spirit ignited by 'Operation Sindoor', mentioning initiatives like 'Har Ghar Tiranga' and 'Tiranga Yatra' that reflect the nation's commitment.

BJD MP Subhashish Khuntia, who attended the event, praised the extension of the Puri-Lalgarh Express to Sri Ganganagar, viewing it as a progressive step for the nation, the state, and Puri district.

Khuntia noted that this extension connects Puri, a key tourist and pilgrimage hub, with Sri Ganganagar and the desert area, thereby improving rail connectivity and promoting tourism.

He added that this initiative supports the broader goal of establishing railway connectivity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, aimed at enhancing rail and tourism development while improving passenger services.

Train schedules between Puri and Lalgarh will remain unchanged, and the new route is now part of the regular timetable.

This service will facilitate direct train access between eastern and northwestern India, particularly benefiting pilgrims and tourists.