India's 2nd longest rly viaduct in the making

A 4.77-km long viaduct being constructed under Khurda Road-Bolangir Railway Line is set to become the second-longest railway bridge in the country, following the iconic Bogibeel Bridge in Assam.

- ARINDAM GANGULY, OP

According to Railway sources, the viaduct is being built to avoid interference with the upcoming Brutang irrigation reservoir after a realignment of the railway route was finalised in consultation with the Water Resources (WR) department.

Deputy chief engineer Rajesh Kumar Das, working on the Viaduct project, stated that the construction began in January 2024 following a joint meeting between the Railway department, the state government, and the WR department.

Das emphasised that elevated viaducts are essential for navigating Odisha’s diverse landscape, which includes dense forests and river valleys. This particular viaduct is being constructed between Buguda and Banigoccha stations, traversing scenic mountains, rural areas, and villages. The project, which involves 180 pillars, is scheduled for completion by August 2026.

The project aims to minimise deforestation and ensure the uninterrupted movement of wildlife, including elephants.