Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched a ₹10 000 crore investment for Bihar’s rail modernisation during the bhoomi pujan at Karpoori Gram station in Samastipur. This initiative, allocated in the Union Budget 2025–26, underscores the government’s push for sustainable, efficient, and equitable connectivity across the state. The scheme also resolves administrative concerns by transferring Karpoori Gram station to the Samastipur division.
Vaishnaw highlighted that four new Amrit Bharat trains—connecting Patna–Delhi daily and regional routes including Darbhanga–Lucknow, Malda–Lucknow, and Saharsa–Amritsar—will be introduced soon to enhance passenger mobility. This addition promotes gender-neutral access by improving connectivity for all demographics. A comprehensive infrastructure upgrade encompasses three major projects: a ₹1 156 crore third rail line between Bhagalpur–Jamalpur, a ₹2 017 crore doubling of the Bakhtiyarpur–Rajgir–Tilaiya section, and a ₹3 000 crore doubling of the Rampurhat–Bhagalpur line. Together, these upgrades will relieve congestion, support freight flow, and offer resilience amid climate-related disruptions.
In line with the push for digital and inclusive infrastructure, new Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) centres are slated for Patna and Darbhanga at outlays of ₹53 crore and ₹10 crore respectively. These hubs will foster innovation and support greener, tech-led economic growth. On-site at Karpoori Gram, Vaishnaw inaugurated enhanced passenger facilities and a level crossing gate, while also inspecting the Digha Bridge halt to ensure quality service delivery. He also directed upgrades such as station building modernisation, accessible ramps, digital information systems, and clean amenities, reinforcing equitable access.
The minister emphasised that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Bihar’s rail allocation has surged nine-fold since 2014, signalling sustained commitment to elevating rail infrastructure. Previously just ₹1 000 crore, the jump to ₹10 000 crore highlights a paradigm shift toward future-ready transport. This strategic infusion supports India’s broader climate and urban equity goals by promoting rail, a lower-carbon and inclusive mode of transport. Enhanced digital hubs strengthen the green‑growth narrative, enabling sustainable economic corridors while fostering gender-neutral access to mobility and employment.
However, as Bihar gears up for elections, the success of these initiatives will hinge on timely execution, transparency, and community engagement. Integration with clean energy sources—like solar-powered stations—could reinforce sustainability credentials further. Ultimately, this moment marks a pivotal stride for Patna and Bihar’s railway network, promising safer, greener travel, operational efficiency, and inclusive growth. The key will lie in walking the talk.
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