Bhagalpur: Bihar is set to receive a major railway boost with the announcement of two new high-speed Vande Bharat trains, including a route linking Bhagalpur and Patna. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Bhagalpur on February 24 to officially inaugurate these services, and railway officials are preparing for a series of significant developments.
Milind Deuskar, General Manager of Eastern Railway, along with Malda DRM, will be in Bhagalpur on February 23 for the event, marking an important step in the region’s railway advancements. Upon arrival, Deuskar is expected to inspect the station, as officials anticipate an announcement from the Prime Minister regarding the operation of the Vande Bharat Express between Bhagalpur and Patna. It is even possible that PM Modi will flag off the train himself during the public meeting.
Preparations Underway
In the lead-up to the launch, officials have been clearing encroachments along the railway track for safety and operational efficiency. The clean-up operation is set to begin in Nathnagar, Bhagalpur, with collaboration between the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the engineering department. This is part of a broader effort to ensure the safe and smooth operation of high-speed trains on the route.
A senior railway official in Bhagalpur confirmed that after the success of the Bhagalpur-Howrah Vande Bharat, plans are also in the works for the introduction of a semi-high-speed train connecting Bhagalpur and Patna. Although a specific launch date is yet to be announced, preparations are already in full swing.
In addition, there is an ongoing proposal to introduce the Amrit Bharat Express from Bhagalpur. However, this is contingent on the successful removal of encroachments, particularly around the Nathnagar area.
Ongoing Struggle with Encroachment
Despite multiple notices, encroachments continue to persist in several locations between Kiul and Bhagalpur, complicating preparations for the new high-speed services. Areas between Kiul and Masudan, as well as sections near Kajra and Abhaypur stations, remain occupied. The railway has expressed concerns about these illegal occupations, as they pose a significant barrier to the safe and efficient operation of modern trains.
