A major infrastructure milestone is taking shape as the East Coast Railway initiates land acquisition to construct the third railway line between Visakhapatnam and Khurda Road. This strategic move, overseen by the Bhubaneswar division, aims to expand transport capacity and bolster industrial growth across the region.

The new line is designed to alleviate congestion on the heavily trafficked Howrah–Chennai mainline, enhancing both speed and operational efficiency. With long-term goals to support burgeoning industries around Visakhapatnam and neighbouring zones, the project is seen as pivotal to regional economic uplift.

Railway officials note this initiative also strengthens national transit infrastructure. Earlier parts of the third line—including stretches in Odisha—already received Central Cabinet approvals and green clearances, valued at approximately ₹5,618 crore over a 385 km network spanning Visakhapatnam to Nergundi-Barang.

Next steps involve detailed surveying, finalising exact land transfers (including private and government parcels), and securing environmental permissions. Once completed, the line is expected to deliver improved logistics, accelerated passenger and freight movement, and a sustained boost to trade and industry connectivity in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.