Chhattisgarh gets new rail boost: CM flags off Rajim–Raipur MEMU train service

Manish TiwariSeptember 18, 2025

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Raipur
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday flagged off a new MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) train service between Rajim and Raipur, further strengthening rail connectivity in the state. The service, which passes through Abhanpur and Mandir Hasaud, promises to make travel faster, cheaper, and more convenient for daily commuters, pilgrims, and tourists.

With the launch of this service, a total of three trains will now operate between Rajim and Raipur. The fare has been kept at just ₹15, making it one of the most affordable travel options in the region. Officials said the service would save time, reduce dependence on road transport, and support the state’s green initiatives by cutting fuel use and pollution.

At the inauguration held at Rajim railway station, CM Sai congratulated the people of the state and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their support. “This new train service will not only save time and make travel easier via Abhanpur but also boost trade, education, tourism, and local employment. It will ensure better access to the sacred sites of Rajim, especially during major festivals like the Kumbh Mela,” Sai said.

The event was attended by Forest, Climate Change and Transport Minister Kedar Kashyap, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dayal Das Baghel, Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal, Mahasamund MP Roop Kumari Choudhary, Rajim MLA Rohit Sahu, Abhanpur MLA Indra Kumar Sahu, district panchayat heads, municipal representatives, SECR General Manager Tarun Prakash, Raipur DRM Dayanand, senior railway officials and staff, along with other dignitaries.

According to the railways, the new MEMU service is part of the Abhanpur–Rajim rail extension project and is expected to directly benefit nearly 2.5 million residents of the Raipur–Rajim region. Daily commuters will save 30–45 minutes per trip, easing overcrowding in buses and providing a cost-effective alternative. Pilgrims and tourists will gain convenient access to Rajim’s temples, while reduced road traffic is expected to improve safety and lower accident risks.

Train services and schedule

Train No. 68766/68767 Raipur–Rajim MEMU Passenger will begin regular operations from September 19, 2025.

From Raipur (No. 68766): Departs 4:45 am, halts at Mandir Hasaud (5:03–5:05), CBD (5:15–5:16), Kendri (5:30–5:32), Abhanpur (5:43–5:45), Manik Chauree Halt (5:56–5:57), and arrives Rajim at 6:20 am.
From Rajim (No. 68767): Departs 6:45 am, halts at Manik Chauree Halt (6:59–7:00), Abhanpur (7:13–7:15), Kendri (7:26–7:28), CBD (7:41–7:42), Mandir Hasaud (7:53–7:55), and arrives Raipur at 8:20 am.

Train No. 68760/68761 Raipur–Abhanpur MEMU Passenger has been extended to Rajim.

From Raipur (No. 68760 extended): Departs 9:00 am, halts at Mandir Hasaud, CBD, Kendri, Abhanpur, Manik Chauree Halt, and reaches Rajim at 10:35 am.
From Rajim (No. 68761 extended): Departs 11:10 am, halts at Manik Chauree Halt, Abhanpur, Kendri, CBD, Mandir Hasaud, and reaches Raipur at 12:45 pm.

Train No. 68762/68763 Raipur–Abhanpur MEMU Passenger has also been extended to Rajim.

From Raipur (No. 68762 extended): Departs 4:20 pm, halts at Mandir Hasaud, CBD, Kendri, Abhanpur, Manik Chauree Halt, and arrives Rajim at 6:00 pm.
From Rajim (No. 68763 extended): Departs 6:30 pm, halts at Manik Chauree Halt, Abhanpur, Kendri, CBD, Mandir Hasaud, and reaches Raipur at 8:15 pm.

Officials said the new and extended services will reduce traffic congestion on highways, provide a sustainable travel option, and connect rural spiritual centers with urban hubs, fostering regional development.