Odisha's ruling BJD party is against the government's plan to divide the Waltair railway division from the East Coast Railway.

In Bhubaneswar, the opposition party BJD expressed their concerns on Sunday regarding the Centre's decision to separate the Waltair division from the East Coast Railway zone. They stated that this move would have severe economic consequences for the state of Odisha. The party also questioned the BJP government in the state for remaining silent on this crucial issue.

However, the BJD did welcome the establishment of a new railway division in Rayagada, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. BJD leader Bhrugu Baxipatra, along with MLA Rupesh Panigrahi and former MP Pradeep Majhi, addressed the media and expressed their reservations about the central government's decision.

Baxipatra pointed out that the decision to split the Waltair division and transfer it to the South Coast Railway zone was solely aimed at appeasing Andhra Pradesh. He stressed the importance of the Waltair division, which covers a distance of over 1,052 kilometres, including the Kottavalasa-Kirandul line, known for its high freight revenue. The Waltair division is also home to the largest diesel loco shed in Indian Railways, with a capacity of housing 300 diesel locomotives.

Baxipatra emphasized that the Waltair division has surpassed the 75 million tonne mark in loading and has earned revenue of over Rs 10,000 crore by March 31, 2024. He also added that the Waltair zone has consistently been among the top revenue-earning and freight-loading divisions in the country.

The BJD leaders strongly opposed the central government's decision and urged them to reconsider it in the best interest of Odisha. They believe that this move will not only harm the state's economy but also affect the livelihoods of the people. They also questioned the BJP government's silence on this matter and urged them to take a stand on it.

In conclusion, the BJD expressed their concerns and reservations about the Centre's decision to delink the Waltair division from the East Coast Railway zone. They believe that this move is motivated by political appeasement and will have severe economic repercussions for Odisha. They hope that the central government will reconsider this decision and take into account the concerns of the people of Odisha.

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