Train to run 80-ft above ground in Odisha! India’s 2nd longest Railway bridge coming up in Nayagarh
BY AKSHAYA KUMAR SAHOO
Bhubaneswar, Nov. 19: Odisha is set to witness one of the most ambitious railway engineering feats in the country, as construction of India’s second longest railway bridge is progressing rapidly in Nayagarh district.
The massive viaduct, rising nearly 80 feet above the ground apparently to accommodate the local Brutang Reservoir ecosystem, is part of the Khurda–Balangir railway project. It promises a spectacular travel experience for passengers once operational.
Gigantic pillars are taking shape across Nayagarh and Daspalla regions, where the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has released aerial footage showcasing the scale of the ongoing work.
The bridge, connecting Jamusahi to Kulurukumpa, forms a major segment of the long-pending Khurda–Balangir rail line meant to improve connectivity between western and coastal Odisha.
Reportedly, the work has been continuing uninterrupted, with 50–60 per cent of the construction already completed. Both the State and the Central governments are jointly pushing the project forward.
“Construction of the 80 feet viaduct between Daspalla and Purunacuttack is going to be the second longest railway bridge in India. We have been hearing that it will be 4.77 km long and supported by 182 massive spans. It’s a great initiative,” said Narayan Behera, a local resident.
“We, the people of Daspalla, are delighted that such a massive viaduct project is underway here. It’s a proud moment not only for Daspalla but also for the entire state. Assam has the longest viaduct, which means ours will be the 2nd longest in the country,” Pramod Mohapatra, a resident of Nayagarh, said.
After Assam’s iconic Bogibeel Bridge, this structure will be the second longest rail bridge in India, stretching 4.77 km and supported by 182 massive spans.
The pier heights vary from 8 metres to 26.3 metres, reflecting the challenging terrain through which the bridge is being built.
According to officials, the remaining work is expected to be completed by March 2026.
Nayagarh District Collector Akshay Sunil Agrawal said, “Land acquisition played a vital role in this massive infrastructural project. Nearly 90 per cent of the work is complete. Once finished, the train journey across this bridge will offer passengers a breathtaking view of nature.”
The railway viaduct, elevated high above the undulating landscape, is expected to become one of the most visually stunning routes in the region.
Passengers will be able to enjoy panoramic views of forests, hills and rivers as the train glides across the sky-high structure.
-Deccan Chronicle
