Amarkantak express was introduced for the first time as a triweekly service by diverting daily train BSP-NGP-BPL Mahanadi Exp. for three days a week to Durg-BSP-JBP-IT-BPL to establish direct link from Durg/Bhilai/Raipur to JBP. Although, the connection to JBP was established without breakinf Bhopal connectivity, but good time slot could not be allotted. For Bhopal Amarkantak is a not good option. Later the Mahanadi was stopped and Amarkantak made daily train.