The proposed Gunupur-Therubali rail route project in Odisha, which has been stalled for years due to disagreements between the Centre and the state regarding funding, has renewed hope for completion with the formation of BJP governments at both levels. Aswini Vaishnaw, the Union Railway Minister from Odisha, is familiar with...
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the project, and Prime Minister Modi's 100-day deadline for pending projects adds further momentum. The project was initially proposed in the 2017-18 Railway Budget with an estimated cost of Rs 935.72 crore and a length of 73.62 km. The Centre had included the route in PM Gati Shakti Yojana, but its implementation has been delayed due to funding issues. The current estimated cost has risen to Rs 1,398 crore. Despite the delay, small amounts of funds have been allocated annually, leaving the project's future uncertain. The project is expected to bring development to the tribal-dominated district of Rayagada, connecting it to Berhampur and other areas. The railway line is also expected to be profitable once operational.