Chhattisgarh News: PM’s Focus Drives Rail Expansion in Chhattisgarh, Raipur-Jabalpur Express Flagged Off

The Raipur-Jabalpur Express train was launched to enhance connectivity between Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. This new service aims to boost tourism and trade while improving regional rail infrastructure.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh today flagged off the much-awaited Raipur-Jabalpur Express train from Raipur Railway Station, marking a new chapter in inter-state connectivity. The grand launch was attended virtually by Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Mansukh Mandaviya, as well as Madhya Pradesh CM Dr. Mohan Yadav, from the main event held in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Simultaneously, the Rewa-Pune (Hadapsar) Express and Bhavnagar Terminus–Ayodhya Express were also inaugurated from their respective locations.

CM Sai hailed the occasion as a milestone in India’s rail expansion, stating, "Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi and the efforts of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, three new train services are being launched today, with Chhattisgarh receiving the invaluable gift of the Raipur-Jabalpur Express." Expressing gratitude on behalf of Chhattisgarh’s 30 million citizens, he highlighted that the state’s railway budget has seen a 21-fold increase over the last decade, with ₹6,900 crore allocated this year alone.

"Rail projects worth over ₹47,000 crore are currently operational in Chhattisgarh, which will elevate the region’s rail infrastructure and passenger services to new heights," CM Sai noted. He also emphasized the redevelopment of 32 stations under the ‘Amrit Bharat Station Scheme’ at a cost of ₹680 crore. CM Shri Sai particularly thanked PM Modi for prioritizing development in the conflict-affected Bastar region by sanctioning vital projects like the Raoghat-Jagdalpur railway line. He added that this new Raipur-Jabalpur service will enhance connectivity for tourism, education, and trade, linking key religious and tourist hubs such as Dongargarh and Bhedaghat.

Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh called the launch "historic," stating, "This rail link will significantly improve connectivity between Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh." He highlighted that the train will cover the 410-km Raipur–Jabalpur distance in just 8 hours, enabling easier travel to Gondia, Balaghat, and Jabalpur. He further noted that 32 stations, including major hubs like Raipur, Bilaspur, and Durg, are being redeveloped to enhance passenger amenities.

Dignitaries present included MP Brijmohan Agrawal, MLAs Motilal Sahu and Purandar Mishra, South East Central Railway GM Tarun Prakash, and DRM Raipur Dayanand, along with a large gathering of citizens.

The new express train service strategically connects Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, offering passengers a fast, convenient alternative. Railway officials shared the schedule: Train No. 11701 will depart Raipur at 2:45 PM and reach Jabalpur at 10:45 PM. On the return, Train No. 11702 will leave Jabalpur at 6:00 AM and arrive in Raipur by 1:50 PM.

The train comprises 15 coaches: 1 AC Chair Car, 4 Chair Cars, 8 General Coaches, 1 Power Car, and 1 SLRD coach. It is expected to serve traders, students, tourists, and daily commuters effectively. The route covers culturally and ecologically rich cities like Raipur, Dongargarh, Balaghat, Nainpur, and Jabalpur. With easier access to attractions like Nandanvan Zoological Park, Maa Bamleshwari Temple, Kanha National Park, Bhedaghat, and Dhuandhar Falls, the new service promises to boost regional tourism.

South East Central Railway’s latest initiative underscores its commitment to making train travel more accessible, secure, and convenient. The new link is set to strengthen regional ties and stimulate local economies across three states.