Rajim: In a major step toward improving transportation infrastructure in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today flagged off a new MEMU train service connecting Rajim to Raipur, providing an affordable and accessible travel option for residents of Rajim, Gariaband, Devbhog, and nearby regions.
The inaugural ceremony took place at Rajim railway station in the presence of a large crowd of enthusiastic passengers, public representatives, and railway officials. The newly launched train marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to integrate rural areas into the mainstream rail network and facilitate smoother connectivity to the capital city, Raipur.
New Train Services Introduced
The event marked the official launch of:
- A new MEMU train between Rajim and Raipur
- The extension of two existing MEMU trains (Raipur–Abhanpur–Raipur) up to Rajim
According to South East Central Railway (SECR), from 19 September 2025, Train Nos. 68766/68767 will operate daily between Rajim and Raipur, via Abhanpur. The MEMU train will consist of 6 general coaches and 2 power cars, offering affordable travel for daily commuters, students, and small traders.
CM Highlights Significance for Common Citizens
Speaking at the flag-off event, Chief Minister Sai expressed happiness at the improved rail access for rural communities. He said,
“With the launch of this new rail service, residents of Rajim, Gariaband, and Devbhog will now have a cost-effective and convenient travel option to reach Raipur. This will particularly benefit students, working professionals, and small businesses.”
He also emphasized that the connectivity of “Chhattisgarh’s Prayag”—Rajim—with the state capital via rail will accelerate regional growth, boost local tourism, and bring spiritual and cultural centers like Rajim into greater prominence.
Revival of Rail Connectivity After 8 Years
The Chief Minister noted that nearly eight years ago, a narrow-gauge train ran between Dhamtari and Raipur. Now, after a long gap, broad-gauge connectivity has been restored in the region, marking a significant advancement in rail infrastructure.
He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, under which Chhattisgarh has seen steady development over the past 19 months, including massive investments in rail infrastructure.
Massive Railway Investment in Chhattisgarh
CM Sai also highlighted that Chhattisgarh currently has ongoing railway projects worth ₹45,000 crore, with ₹7,000 crore allocated for the financial year 2025–26. These investments are aimed at expanding and modernizing the railway network, ensuring long-term connectivity and development for future generations.
Leaders Praise Development and Tourism Boost
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including:
- Kedar Kashyap, Forest Minister and Raipur District In-charge Minister
- Dayal Das Baghel, Food Minister
- Brijmohan Agrawal, MP from Raipur
- Roopkumari Choudhary, MP from Mahasamund
- Rohit Sahu, MLA from Rajim
- Indrakumar Sahu, MLA from Abhanpur
Minister Kedar Kashyap stated that the new service would promote tourism in Rajim, which is a religious hub attracting saints and pilgrims. He also mentioned that under the “Nirmal Bharat Railway Station” initiative, 5 railway stations in Chhattisgarh are being upgraded, with 32 more set to be added.
MP Brijmohan Agrawal emphasized the cultural and spiritual significance of Rajim and said the new rail service would make it easier for tourists and pilgrims to visit from across the state and country.
New Rail Line to Support Tourism, Pilgrimage, and Local Economy
MP Roopkumari Choudhary congratulated the people of Rajim and said that with this development, pilgrims can now travel directly from Rajim to Dongargarh, enhancing religious tourism and economic activity in the region.
Train Schedule and Coach Composition
According to SECR’s Raipur Division:
- The Rajim–Abhanpur–Raipur MEMU Passenger (68766/68767) will run daily
- It will have 8 coaches: 6 general and 2 power cars
The service is expected to serve commuters, pilgrims, and traders while improving overall connectivity between the rural heartlands and urban centers of Chhattisgarh.
The launch of the new MEMU service is a welcome move that blends infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and regional connectivity. It not only addresses the long-standing transportation needs of residents in interior Chhattisgarh but also strengthens the state’s position as a growing hub for tourism, commerce, and inclusive development.
