📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Railways
National
Rowghat sees first train since Independence as ₹1,628 cr rail line opens in Chhattisgarh
✍️ Livemint
🗓 23 Oct 2026, 08:02 AM
👁 10
Indian Railways inaugurated a new ₹1,628 crore line in Chhattisgarh, allowing the first train to reach Rowghat since Independence.
Indian Railways has completed a 1,628‑crore rail project in Chhattisgarh, linking the remote town of Rowghat to the national network. The line, built over several years, was officially opened with the arrival of the first passenger train, marking the first rail service to Rowghat since the country gained independence in 1947.
The new corridor is expected to boost connectivity for the region, facilitating movement of people and goods and supporting local economic activity. Officials highlighted that the investment reflects the government’s focus on expanding infrastructure in under‑served areas of the state.
Local residents gathered at the station to witness the historic moment, expressing optimism that regular train services will improve access to education, healthcare and markets. The inaugural run is scheduled to be followed by a regular timetable, though exact frequencies have not yet been disclosed.
The project underscores Indian Railways’ broader push to modernise and extend its network across the country, particularly in central India where rail links have historically been limited.
The new corridor is expected to boost connectivity for the region, facilitating movement of people and goods and supporting local economic activity. Officials highlighted that the investment reflects the government’s focus on expanding infrastructure in under‑served areas of the state.
Local residents gathered at the station to witness the historic moment, expressing optimism that regular train services will improve access to education, healthcare and markets. The inaugural run is scheduled to be followed by a regular timetable, though exact frequencies have not yet been disclosed.
The project underscores Indian Railways’ broader push to modernise and extend its network across the country, particularly in central India where rail links have historically been limited.