Indian Railways has extended the Puri-Lalgarh-Puri Weekly Express to Shri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, connecting the Bay of Bengal with the Thar Desert. This historic step aims to foster cultural and economic development between Odisha and Rajasthan.
Key Highlights of the Train Extension
- Route Connection: The extension connects Puri in Odisha with Shri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, enhancing rail connectivity between eastern and northwestern India.
- Train Schedule: The weekly train departs Puri railway station every Wednesday at 6:35 am and arrives at Shri Ganganagar station in Rajasthan at 8:35 pm the next day.
- Stoppage Details: The train has only 9 stoppages between Puri and Shri Ganganagar stations.
- Inauguration: The extended train service was flagged off by Puri MP Sambit Patra and Rajya Sabha MP Subhashish Khuntia.
Impact and Significance
- Cultural and Economic Ties: The extension strengthens cultural integration and economic ties between Odisha and Rajasthan.
- Tourism Boost: The connection is expected to boost tourism, especially religious tourism to Puri's Jagannath Temple.
- Alignment with National Vision: The move aligns with the vision of achieving railway connectivity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, promoting rail and tourism development.
BJP MP Sambit Patra highlighted the transformation of Odisha's railway sector under the current government, noting a significant increase in budget allocation for railway development in Odisha.