In a strategic move to enhance rail connectivity and decongest the primary railway hub, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has commenced full-scale operations of three major express trains from the Bhubaneswar New Railway Station (BBSN) as of 12 May 2025.
This development marks a significant shift in Odisha’s transportation landscape, aiming to better serve the northern regions of Bhubaneswar and neighbouring areas. The trains now originating and terminating at BBSN include the Mumbai-Bhubaneswar Konark Express (11019/11020), Secunderabad-Bhubaneswar Visakha Express (17015/17016), and the Bhubaneswar-Visakhapatnam Intercity Express (22819/22820). Previously operating from the Bhubaneswar Main Station (BBS), these services have been rerouted to the newer facility to alleviate congestion and improve operational efficiency.
Strategically located in the northern part of the city, BBSN is poised to serve as a pivotal node in the region’s rail network. The station’s enhanced accessibility is expected to benefit residents of northern Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Athagarh, providing them with more convenient travel options. Each of these trains will include a two-minute halt at Mancheswar Railway Station, facilitating smoother transitions for passengers. Additionally, a 20-minute stop at the Bhubaneswar Main Station has been incorporated into the schedule, ensuring continued service to central city commuters.
The Konark Express, a daily service connecting Bhubaneswar and Mumbai, will now depart from BBSN at 2:40 PM. The Visakha Express to Secunderabad is scheduled to leave at 8:00 AM, while the Bhubaneswar-Visakhapatnam Intercity Express will commence its journey at 7:15 AM from the new station. This transition is part of ECoR’s broader initiative to modernise the rail infrastructure and promote sustainable urban development. By decentralising train operations, the railway aims to reduce the environmental impact associated with overcrowded stations and enhance the overall passenger experience.
The successful implementation of this operational shift underscores the potential of BBSN to emerge as a central hub in Odisha’s rail network. As the city continues to grow, such strategic infrastructural developments are crucial in fostering equitable and efficient transportation solutions.
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