In a major boost to coal logistics, the government has identified 38 priority rail projects to be fast-tracked in close collaboration with the Ministry of Railways. The process is part of a mega strategic coal logistics plan aimed to enhance rail connectivity, ensure timely coal supply, and reduce logistics costs, ultimately boosting the efficiency of coal transportation nationwide.
First state to be focused upon is Odisha, where the government has recently approved two key rail initiatives. The Sardega-Bhalumuda double line and the Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line projects are expected to play a crucial role in optimizing coal logistics.
Extending up to 37.24 kilometers, the Sardega-Bhalumuda double line will traverse key coal blocks in the IB Valley and Mand-Raigarh Coalfields. This new line is purposefully planned and designed for the efficient evacuation of coal from both Coal India’s Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd and various private mines. By shortening the transportation distance to power plants in northern India, the project aims to significantly enhance operational efficiency. Similarly, the 138.32-kilometer Bargarh Road-Nawapara Road single line project will streamline coal evacuation from the Talcher Coalfield.
