Another Revolutionary Step in Bastar’s Development; Dalli-Rajhara–Raoghat Rail Project to be Completed by December
Raipur, 13 August
The Dalli-Rajhara–Raoghat Rail Project, a crucial infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening railway connectivity in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, is progressing rapidly. Out of the total 95 km project, the 77.5 km Taroki–Raoghat section is nearing completion, with 100% utility shifting completed. Construction of major and minor bridges, as well as track laying, is in its final stages—signaling strong progress toward the December 2025 completion target for this ambitious project.
Once completed, this rail project will connect Bastar directly to the state capital by rail for the first time. This will significantly improve convenience for passengers traveling to and from Bastar and will also boost mineral transportation. The enhanced connectivity is expected to bring a transformative change to Bastar’s social and economic landscape, uplifting the standard of living for the local population.
The rail line will provide direct linkage between the Raoghat iron ore mines and the SAIL/Bhilai Steel Plant. Currently, the iron ore reserves in Dalli-Rajhara are depleting, making this project not only crucial for industrial supply chains but also a backbone for the region’s economic development.
According to Rail Vikas Nigam Limited, land acquisition for 17.5 km has been completed. Most of the 21.94 lakh cubic meters of earthwork has also been done. Out of 3 major bridges, 2 are finished, while 55 out of 61 minor bridges have been constructed. Ballast procurement and building construction are expected to be completed by August–September 2025.
It’s noteworthy that the entire 95 km rail corridor includes the construction of:
16 major bridges
19 road overbridges (ROBs)
45 road underbridges (RUBs)
176 minor bridges
In just the 17.5 km Taroki–Raoghat section, the construction involves:
3 major bridges
5 ROBs
7 RUBs
49 minor bridges
All construction work is being carried out with high technical precision and safety standards, ensuring long-term durability and reliability of the infrastructure.
Challenges in a Left-Wing Extremism-Affected Region
The construction work has faced serious challenges due to Maoist (Naxal) activities. There have been 12 attacks by Naxals, resulting in the deaths of 4 workers and the martyrdom of 2 security personnel. Several incidents of arson targeting construction equipment and machinery have also occurred. However, with the deployment of SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) security, the project has made significant progress.
Once completed, the railway line will boost mineral transportation, employment, local trade, and passenger services in the Bastar region. It will not only streamline logistics but also integrate the region into the national mainstream, opening up new investment opportunities and driving infrastructure expansion.
Train operations on the Taroki–Raoghat section are expected to begin by December 2025. With its completion, Bastar will embark on a new journey of development, where trains will not only carry minerals and goods, but also bring employment, opportunities, and growth to this historically underserved region.