The Rayagada railway division, part of the East Coast Railway (ECoR), officially begins operations today, coinciding with the establishment of the South Coast Railway (SCoR) zone headquartered in Visakhapatnam. This new division, formed from parts of the Waltair division, is expected to enhance freight operations and administrative efficiency in southern Odisha. With a workforce of around 40 officers and nearly 600 staff, the division aims to facilitate better coordination with state departments and local industries. ECoR officials project that annual freight loading will exceed 40 million tonnes, with significant contributions from iron ore, alumina, and steel products. Infrastructure development is a key focus, with investments surpassing ₹20,000 crore for projects covering approximately 1,360 km. New railway lines and GatiShakti Cargo Terminals are planned to boost logistics capacity, which is expected to generate local economic activity and job opportunities in Rayagada and surrounding districts. This initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ strategy for decentralized administration to improve operational efficiency and regional development.