In a strategic move to enhance Bihar’s railway infrastructure, the state’s Chief Secretary has formally approached the Railway Board, advocating for the initiation of six pivotal projects aimed at improving connectivity and meeting the escalating demands of the state’s populace.
The Chief Secretary highlighted Bihar’s significant population density, which, at 1,388 individuals per square kilometre as of 2024, surpasses the national average by 289.5%. This demographic pressure underscores the urgent need for expanded and modernized railway infrastructure to facilitate efficient movement for employment, education, and healthcare purposes. Among the proposed projects is the introduction of a circular train service encompassing the Patna-Gaya-Tilaiya-Rajgir-Fatuha-Patna route. This service is anticipated to greatly benefit commuters and pilgrims, particularly those traveling to Bodh Gaya and Rajgir, by providing enhanced connectivity for residents across Patna, Jehanabad, Gaya, Nawada, and Nalanda districts.
The proposal also includes the construction of two new rail bridges over the Ganga River: one linking Fatuha and Bidupur, and another connecting Ara and Chapra. These bridges aim to bolster regional connectivity between northern and southern Bihar, alleviating traffic congestion and promoting economic integration. Further, the development of suburban transport networks in both South and North Bihar is on the agenda. The South Bihar network would enhance links between Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Lakhisarai, Munger, Sheikhpura, Bhagalpur, Jamui, and Banka to Patna. Simultaneously, the North Bihar network seeks to improve connectivity from Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and Darbhanga to the state capital.
Addressing the high passenger volume on the DDU-Buxar-Ara-Patna-Kiul section, the Chief Secretary has called for the early sanctioning of third and fourth railway lines to accommodate the growing demand. The state government has expressed its commitment to facilitating land acquisition and supporting the necessary infrastructural developments. These initiatives align with the Union Budget 2025’s vision of modernizing Bihar’s transportation infrastructure, aiming to bring the state’s railway network up to national standards and support its socio-economic growth.
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