The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, September 26, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The East Coast Railway (ECoR), a major zonal railway of Indian Railways, has been instrumental in promoting tourism across the East Coast region, which includes significant parts of Odisha, Northern Andhra Pradesh, and Southeast Chhattisgarh. Known for its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical significance, the region has become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Through its extensive rail network, ECoR provides seamless connectivity to key tourist hotspots, enhancing access and fostering tourism growth.
One of the standout attractions is Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a biodiversity hotspot, especially for birdwatchers. ECoR ensures easy access to Chilika through key stations like Balugaon and Chilika, offering special trains during the migratory season to accommodate the influx of eco-tourists. Similarly, the scenic ghat sections on the Koraput-Rayagada (KR) and Kottavalasa-Kirandul (KK) lines have become popular for rail tourism, offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Ghats, dense forests, and valleys. The journey through the Araku Valley, known for its coffee plantations and tribal culture, is particularly iconic, with ECoR introducing special Vistadome coaches to enhance the travel experience.
In addition to these natural wonders, ECoR connects spiritual and historical sites like Puri, home to the famous Jagannath Temple and the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Special trains are introduced during the annual Rath Yatra to manage the large influx of pilgrims. ECoR also links the serene beaches of Gopalpur and Siali — emerging coastal gems that offer peaceful retreats for tourists looking to escape the city bustle.
Lesser-known destinations like Bhitarakanika National Park, one of India’s largest mangrove ecosystems, and Keonjhar’s hidden waterfalls are also gaining popularity thanks to improved rail connectivity. The same goes for the rich historical and natural attractions in Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Western Odisha, including the Hirakud Dam and ancient temples.
ECoR’s efforts to promote tourism in Northern Andhra Pradesh are equally noteworthy, with Visakhapatnam, Simhachalam, and Vizianagaram becoming key stops for cultural and eco-tourists alike. Moreover, Bastar in Chhattisgarh, with its stunning waterfalls and tribal culture, has also seen a surge in tourism due to ECoR’s services.
With ongoing initiatives such as the introduction of tourist-friendly trains and the promotion of lesser-explored destinations, ECoR is poised to continue playing a crucial role in boosting tourism in the East Coast region, contributing significantly to the local economy.
