Kolkata, 9th June, 2026
In a significant boost to rail infrastructure and capacity enhancement, South Eastern Railway has successfully commissioned the 18 Km third line section between Khantapara-Bahanaga Bazar-Soro under the Narayangarh- Bhadrak Third Line Project.
Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), SE Circle, Kolkata, conducted the statutory inspection for the opening of the newly constructed third line between Khantapara and Soro stations under Kharagpur Division of South Eastern Railway on 19th and 20th May 2026. Train operations commenced on this section from 2nd June 2026, marking another milestone in capacity augmentation over the Howrah- Chennai trunk route.
Key Benefits of the Project:
- The section forms an integral part of the Narayangarh-Bhadrak Third Line Project and will help to decongest the heavily saturated Kharagpur-Bhadrak corridor. With the earlier commissioning of the Soro-Ranital third line section, this project further enhances line capacity and operational efficiency.
- A long loop line at Khantapara has been developed, facilitating the formation and operation of long-haul freight trains.
- Passenger amenities at Khantapara and Bahanaga Bazar stations have been upgraded to provide improved facilities and convenience to rail users.
- The commissioning of the third line creates opportunities for freight growth and local economic activities.
The project will ensure South Eastern Railway’s commitment to strengthening railway infrastructure, enhancing safety, improving passenger services and increasing freight-carrying capacity to meet the growing transportation needs of the region.
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