Bhubaneswar: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday flagged off the Brahmapur–Surat (Udhna) Amrit Bharat Express as a daily service and announced a new train for North Odisha, boosting rail connectivity in the state.

The Minister said the introduction of the daily Amrit Bharat Express fulfils a long-standing assurance to the people of Brahmapur, offering regular and affordable connectivity to Surat. He noted the service will particularly benefit migrant workers, students and families travelling between Odisha and Gujarat.

Vaishnaw also announced Brahmapur Railway Station will be redeveloped into a world-class facility with an investment of around ₹300 crore. The project aims to significantly enhance passenger amenities and modernise station infrastructure.

Highlighting future plans, the Railway Minister said a new train service for North Odisha will be introduced to further strengthen connectivity across the region.

He assured just as railway services have been expanded across western, southern and coastal parts of Odisha, North Odisha will also receive focused attention to address its connectivity needs.

Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment, Vaishnaw said efforts are ongoing to expand the railway network across Odisha, ensuring balanced regional development and improved passenger services.