RAIPUR (CG Economy) – The ambitious Dalli Rajhara–Raoghat rail project, designed to strengthen railway connectivity for the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, is nearing completion with 97% of the work finished.
The 95-km project includes the 77.5-km Taroki–Raoghat section, where utility shifting is fully complete and major track-laying works are in the final stage.
Officials expect the project to be operational by December 2025.
Once completed, the rail line will directly connect Bastar to the state capital for the first time, improving passenger convenience and providing a major boost to mineral transportation.
This connectivity is set to transform the socio-economic landscape of the region, creating opportunities for local communities and enhancing their quality of life.
The project is strategically significant for transporting iron ore from Raoghat mines to the Bhilai Steel Plant, addressing the depletion of ore reserves in Dalli Rajhara mines.
Land acquisition for the 17.5-km section is complete, along with most earthworks and bridge construction.
Out of three major bridges, two are ready, and 55 of 61 smaller bridges are completed.
Despite challenges from left-wing extremism, including 12 attacks causing casualties and damage to equipment, progress accelerated after SSB security deployment.
The railway will feature 16 major bridges, 19 road overbridges, 45 road underbridges, and 176 minor bridges. Once operational, it will drive mineral transport, job creation, local trade, and regional integration, opening new avenues for investment and infrastructure growth in Bastar.
(CG Economy)