Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: They say The railway track brings development alongside. We often see rail tracks going in places where human traces are almost zero. But ever wonder who made it here. That’s where we understand Engineering has its own magic, but we often get lost in magic to identify the magician. One of such railway magicians is Ajaya Kumar Samal, Chief Engineer (Construction) of East Coast Railway. A man of unwavering dedication, Samal has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of railway connectivity in Odisha. His journey, from an academician to an engineering stalwart, is nothing short of inspiring.
A Journey Rooted in Excellence
Ajaya Kumar Samal’s academic foundation is as solid as the structures he builds. He completed his graduation from VSSUT, Burla and later pursued his M.Tech in Structural Engineering from the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela. His passion for knowledge led him to serve as a professor at NIT Rourkela for three years before transitioning into public service.
Through the Indian Engineering Services (IES), he joined the Ministry of Surface Transport, now known as the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH). His tenure in the ministry laid the groundwork for his deep understanding of large-scale infrastructure projects. However, his true calling lay in the railways, where he would leave an indelible mark.
A Legacy in Indian Railways
After joining Indian Railways, Samal worked extensively in the South Eastern Railway and East Coast Railway zones. His expertise was instrumental in major projects, particularly the regirdering of the Budhabalanga and Subarnarekha rivers in Balasore and Jaleswar. These projects, executed under his supervision, not only enhanced railway efficiency but also contributed significantly to regional development.
Before assuming his current role, he served as the Senior Divisional Engineer in Khurda. In 2018, he was appointed as the Secretary to General manager in the East Coast Railway , a position that prepared him for the monumental responsibilities ahead. Finally, in December 2019, he was appointed Chief Engineer (Construction) in East Coast Railway—a role that would bring him face-to-face with one of Odisha’s most challenging and ambitious railway projects.
The Khurda-Balangir Railway Project: A Testament to Determination
Within days of his appointment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the long-stalled Khurda-Balangir railway project. Sanctioned in 1995, the 301-km project had barely progressed due to various obstacles, from land acquisition hurdles to local resistance and environmental concerns. However, under Samal’s leadership, the project saw unprecedented progress.
Out of the total 301 km, an impressive 226 km has been completed, with 146 km completed after his joining. His relentless efforts ensured that districts like Boudh and Sonepur, which had never seen a railway track, finally witnessed the arrival of the locomotive.
“The place had nothing,” he recalled. “We packed some food in tiffins and started work, sitting under a tree with our blueprints. Some villagers offered us a bed and chair; others brought us food. That’s how we carried on from scratch. No matter how hard or hectic, those moments are now cherished memories.”
First ever engene rolling in Jharmunda
One of the biggest challenges was clearing dense forest areas stretching 112-180 km. Initially, it was estimated that over three lakh trees would have to be felled. However, Samal, ever mindful of environmental preservation, sought innovative solutions. Instead of rampant deforestation, his team implemented viaducts and tunnels, reducing tree loss to less than one lakh and ensuring the safe passage of elephants and other wildlife.
He personally took the issue to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF) and even accompanied Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav to advocate for an environmentally responsible solution. His persistence paid off, securing clearances while preserving the delicate ecosystem of the Eastern Ghats Reserve Forest.
Overcoming Challenges with Grit and Innovation
The journey was not without setbacks. The COVID-19 pandemic halted progress for nearly two years, but Samal remained undeterred. Additionally, in Nuagaon-Daspalla, locals resisted blasting operations. “People would come and sit in the blast zone. It was incredibly difficult to convince them that this was for their development,” he explained. In some instances, police battalions had to be stationed to prevent interference.
Tunnel making in process in critical pathways of Forests.
Despite these hurdles, the project made remarkable strides. Of the seven planned tunnels, longest stretching 4.2km, five have achieved breakthroughs. The construction of a 4.77 km viaduct to avoid disrupting the Bhrutang irrigation project further demonstrated his commitment to balancing progress with preservation.
A Leader Who Cares
Beyond infrastructure, Samal ensured that those displaced by the project were adequately compensated. “If a pond was lost, we created a new one. If a temple had to be removed, we rebuilt it elsewhere. We made sure that people did not feel shortchanged,” he emphasized. His team also implemented extensive reforestation efforts, planting thousands of trees to restore the green cover.
His dedication extended to the Cuttack Railway Station redevelopment, a project that aimed to transform the historic station into a modern marvel. Under his supervision, Cuttack station cost ₹300 crore , with features akin to an airport—multimodal transport integration, a three-story terminal, and enhanced passenger amenities. The amazing view today we see at the Cuttack Railway Station was supervised by the Hon’ble Minister of railway, MPs and people representative by themselves. No doubt Mr. Samal’s contributions in this is significant.
The Man Beyond the Engineer
Despite his towering professional achievements, Samal remains deeply grounded. He is passionate about music, often singing at railway club events whenever time permits. He is also a fitness enthusiast, starting his mornings with a game of badminton, a habit he swears by for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Currently, he serves as the General Secretary of the East Coast Railway Sports Association, promoting fitness and sportsmanship among railway employees.
Mr. Ajaya Kumar Samal singing in a function.
When asked about his motivation, he reflected, “Working in Odisha has its own satisfaction. Doing something for my homeland, giving back to the society I grew up in—that feeling is unparalleled.”
His humbleness and people-first approach were evident when he first visited the Boudh district for the railway project. Upon his arrival, a massive crowd gathered, eager to meet the man behind the transformation. Instead of retreating, he calmly sat with them, listened to their concerns, and even invited the Collector of Boudh to address their doubts. His personal involvement helped bridge the gap between development and local apprehensions.
A Message for Aspiring Engineers
For young engineers, Samal has simple yet profound advice: “Dedication makes dreams come true. Take responsibility—treat every project as your own. Think about the development it brings and commit yourself fully. Only then will you see success.”
His words resonate deeply, reflecting the very principles that have defined his illustrious career.
A Lasting Impact
The Khurda-Balangir railway line is more than just a project—it is a symbol of connectivity, progress, and transformation. Once complete, it will directly link Odisha’s east and west, eliminating circuitous routes and significantly boosting trade and travel. Additionally, with the upcoming Gopalpur port and Paradip port, western Odisha will gain vital access to the Gopalpur port, further strengthening economic opportunities.
Samal’s contributions extend beyond railway tracks and bridges. His leadership, foresight, and unwavering commitment have laid the foundation for a better-connected, more prosperous Odisha. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and service—an inspiration for generations to come.
