2 min readJul 5, 2026 07:59 PM IST
Puri-Koraput Express train launch: Indian Railways (IR) is set to launch a new express train between Puri and Koraput. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag off the train from Bhubaneswar railway station on Monday (July 6). The new train service is expected to improve rail connectivity within Odisha. It will be maintained and operated by the East Coast Railway (ECoR) zone.
“Introduction of the Puri-Koraput Express fulfils the long-standing aspiration of people by providing direct rail connectivity between the holy city of Puri and the tribal heartland of Koraput. The train will benefit pilgrims, tourists, students, patients, traders, and the local residents by improving access to religious destinations, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and commercial centres across the state,” the zonal railway said in a statement.
Puri-Koraput Express train inaugural special: Train number, Route
On Monday, the Puri-Koraput Express will run as an inaugural service. It will run as train number 18407/18408. It will run via Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Angul, Sambalpur, Bargarh Road, Balangir, Titlagarh, Kesinga, Muniguda, Rayagada, Kakiriguma and Damanjodi.
Puri-Koraput Express train: Stoppage, Frequency
During its journey between Puri and Koraput, train number 18407/18408 will halt at Khurda Road, Bhubaneswar, Naraj, Marthapur, Dhenkanal, Talcher Road, Angul, Boinda, Rairakhol, Sambalpur, Bargarh Road, Balangir, Titlagarh, Kesinga, Muniguda, Rayagada, Tikiri, Laxmipur Road, Kakiriguma and Damanjodi.
The train will run from Puri on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from Koraput on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Puri-Koraput Express train: Timetable
During its regular service, train number 18407 will depart from Puri at 7 am and arrive at Koraput at 11:30 pm. On the return journey, train number 18408 will leave Koraput at 5 am and reach Puri at 10:20 pm. The introduction of train number 18407/18408 Puri-Koraput-Puri Express was approved by the Railway Board on May 13, 2026.