In a major development, East Coast Railway (ECoR) has successfully achieved a breakthrough in tunnel no. 35 as part of the Koraput-Singapur Road doubling project. 

The 630-mtrs. tunnel, located between Sikarpai and Keutguda stations in the Waltair division, was completed with 100 percent alignment accuracy, marking a significant step forward in the highpriority project. The work was overseen by the Chief Engineer, Construction-II, Visakhapatnam, with senior officials from the Waltair division present during the breakthrough. 

ECoR officials highlighted that this achievement underscores their commitment to precision and timely execution, emphasising the improvement in rail connectivity the project will bring. A senior official stated, "The successful breakthrough of tunnel 35 demonstrates our commitment to precision, quality, and timely execution." The completion of this tunnel will significantly enhance capacity and improve connectivity in southern Odisha and neighboring regions.