Odisha: Bhanjapur-Puri special trains upgraded to regular express service
Odisha: Indian Railways has approved the conversion of the Bhanjapur-Puri-Bhanjapur Special trains into regular express services, aiming to improve passenger convenience and strengthen regional rail connectivity. This decision will allow passengers to enjoy a permanent and regular train service on this route, which is expected to make travel more convenient and reliable.
According to information provided by the Railways, train numbers 08011/08012 Bhanjapur-Puri-Bhanjapur Special will now be renumbered as the 18017/18018 Bhanjapur-Puri-Bhanjapur Express. Regular service will commence from Bhanjapur in Baripada on May 21st, and from Puri on May 22nd.
Under the new schedule, train number 18017 Bhanjapur-Puri Express will depart from Bhanjapur at 11:10 pm and arrive in Puri at 5:50 am the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 18018 Puri-Bhanjapur Express will depart from Puri at 11:50 pm and arrive at Bhanjapur at 6:50 am. This schedule will provide passengers with better night travel convenience.
Railway officials stated that these trains were initially introduced as special services, but due to positive passenger response and ever-increasing demand, they have now been upgraded to regular express trains. The Railways believe that this change will not only provide greater convenience to passengers but will also strengthen the regional transportation system.
The Railways also stated that this service will play a vital role in connecting several important stations in Odisha, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Baripada, Balasore, Soro, Bhadrak, Jajpur-Keonjhar Road, and Khurda Road. Improved connectivity between these stations will facilitate travel and save time for passengers.
This decision is being considered a significant relief for local passengers and daily commuters, as these routes already see a significant footfall. The resumption of regular train services will not only help control crowds but also make travel planning easier.
According to railway officials, such special trains may be converted into regular services on additional routes in the future, based on passenger demand and regional needs. This move is part of Indian Railways’ policy of prioritizing expansion of passenger amenities and regional connectivity.
