Raipur, Oct 19: Chhattisgarh is set to script a historic chapter in its railway history on 20 October as rail connectivity reaches Rowghat for the first time since Independence. The Tadoki–Rowghat railway line and the Abhanpur–Kurud broad-gauge railway line will be inaugurated in the presence of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

The event will also witness the launch of new Rowghat–Raipur and Raipur–Kurud passenger services, alongside the foundation stone laying for a major electric locomotive maintenance facility in Raipur. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will join the programme through video conferencing.

Congratulating the state, Chief Minister Sai stated that rail connectivity to Rowghat represents a vital step toward connecting remote areas of Bastar and southern Chhattisgarh with modern development opportunities. He noted that the expansion will improve local access to education, healthcare, employment, and trade, providing fresh momentum to the socio-economic growth of the region. Furthermore, Sai emphasized that railway infrastructure across the state is witnessing unprecedented growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reflecting the double-engine government’s commitment to tribal and remote areas.

The 95-kilometre railway line between Dallirajhara and Rowghat has been completed at a cost of approximately ₹1,628 crore. The finalization of the 17.5-kilometre stretch between Tadoki and Rowghat successfully completes this strategic project.

Beyond passenger mobility, the new link will facilitate the transport of iron ore from the Rowghat mines, directly meeting the raw material requirements of the Bhilai Steel Plant and the national steel industry.

Gauge conversion of the 22-kilometre railway line between Abhanpur and Kurud has been completed under the broader Abhanpur–Dhamtari project. This launch strengthens passenger links to the state capital, Raipur, while work on the remaining Kurud–Dhamtari section continues.

Additionally, the newly laid foundation for the electric locomotive maintenance facility in Raipur will house the capacity to service 300 high-horsepower electric locomotives, ensuring smoother operational efficiency and freight movement across the network.