Bhubaneswar, February 7: The Ministry of Railways has given the green signal for the establishment of a Wagon Periodic Overhauling (PoH) facility at Kantabanji in Balangir district following the approval of Rs 244.77 crore by the Railway Board, said an official release.
According to an East Coast Railway (ECoR) statement, this significant development comes after thorough consideration of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) submitted in September 2023.
“The proposed Wagon PoH workshop, with a capacity for 200 wagons, will be set up on the vacant land available with Railways at Kantabanji. This decision comes in response to the fervent demands of the local people, including public representatives, who have long advocated for such a facility in the region,” it stated.
Recognizing the critical need for such a workshop, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured local people of his commitment to their aspirations. The approval from the Railway Board underscores the government’s dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of citizens.
The establishment of the Wagon PoH workshop holds several key benefits.
It would increase the freight traffic in this region and regular overhauling of wagons will be maintained well for safe train operations. The life span of wagons will aid in rectify the wagons which will lead to cost saving on replacements, it stated.
These apart, the wagon maintenance will improve efficiency and reliability, resulting in better performance and reduce downtime. The establishment of the Wagon PoH workshop at Kantabanji underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing railway infrastructure and ensuring the safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of the railway system.