A new Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) was inaugurated at Brundamal in Jharsuguda district, Odisha, in 08 October, 2025, aiming to streamline coal transportation from the Talabira coal blocks and the Ib-Sardega area.

Constructed on railway land under the East Coast Railway zone, it is the region’s first multimodal terminal built on railway-owned land and tracks. Construction began on 05 July, 2023, and was completed by 04 July, 2024. The terminal became operational for freight on September 20 and boasts an annual handling capacity of 4.38 million tonne.

The terminal plays a key role in supporting the PM Gati Shakti initiative for integrated logistics and industrial development, according to a railway press release. It will facilitate faster coal evacuation, increase freight movement, and contribute to Jharsuguda’s economic growth by improving logistical efficiency in the coal-rich Ib Valley region. Around 80 percent of the cargo will be coal from Talabira, with the remaining 20 percent from other regional coalfields.