New Raipur-Jabalpur Train Boosts Connectivity

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the Raipur-Jabalpur daily express train from Raipur Railway Station on Sunday, marking a significant step in improving regional connectivity. Joined by state assembly speaker Raman Singh, BJP MP Brijmohan Agrawal, and other party MLAs, Sai thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for launching the service, which he said would greatly benefit Chhattisgarh’s three crore residents.

“This new train is a matter of pride and joy for Chhattisgarh,” Sai told reporters. Previously, only one train operated on this route, but the new daily express, the second service, connects Raipur to Jabalpur via key stops like Durg, Rajnandgaon, Dongargarh—a prominent pilgrimage hub—Gondia, Balaghat, Nainpur, and Madan Mahal. The train departs Raipur at 2:45 pm, arriving in Jabalpur at 10:45 pm, and returns from Jabalpur at 6:00 am, reaching Raipur by 1:50 pm.

Equipped with 15 coaches, including eight general class, four chair cars, and one AC chair car, the train is designed to cater to diverse travelers. A South East Central Railway (SECR) official emphasized its role in enhancing passenger facilities and boosting socio-economic activities. “This service will ease travel for businesspersons, students, tourists, and daily commuters while promoting cultural and natural heritage sites,” the official said.

Also Read: Chhattisgarh Court Frees Kerala Nuns in Controversial Trafficking Case

The route connects passengers to attractions like Maa Bamleshwari temple in Dongargarh, Kanha National Park, Bhedaghat’s marble rocks, Dhuandhar waterfall, and Nandanvan Zoological Park, fostering tourism and local economies. The initiative aligns with SECR’s commitment to improving infrastructure and accessibility, with plans to further expand rail connectivity in the region.

Also Read: Chhattisgarh NIA Court Delays Bail Decision for Kerala Nuns in Trafficking Case