Chhattisgarh News: LiDAR-Powered Rail Survey Paves Way for Development in Naxal-Affected Districts

The proposed railway line from Kothagudem to Kirandul is nearing completion, promising improved connectivity and socio-economic growth in Naxal-affected districts.

The wheels of development are now gathering momentum in one of the most challenging regions of the country - the Bastar division. The final location survey (FLS) of the proposed 160.33 km long new railway line from Kothagudem (Telangana) to Kirandul (Chhattisgarh) is now in its concluding phase, following the formal approval from the Central Government. A significant portion of this proposed railway line-spanning 138.51 km-will en route Naxal-affected districts of Sukma, Dantewada, and Bijapur in Chhattisgarh, areas which have thus far remained cut off from the national railway network. This project is expected not only to ease transportation but also to usher in a transformative wave of socio-economic development across these regions.

The survey work is being conducted using state-of-the-art LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. This railway line project is being specially monitored by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and is being regarded as critically important from the standpoint of both internal security and regional development.

Indian Railways has expressed deep gratitude towards the Government of Chhattisgarh and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, whose initiatives and coordinated efforts have significantly expedited the survey process. In the times to come, this railway corridor is set to become a symbol of security, inclusion, and prosperity for the Bastar region.