Raxaul/Patna: In a boost to rail connectivity between Bihar and West Bengal, the Raxaul-Howrah Express (Train No. 13044) has been upgraded with modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches, replacing the older ICF bogies. The revamped train was flagged off from Raxaul on Saturday by Bettiah MP Sanjay Jaiswal, fulfilling a key promise he had made during the last Lok Sabha elections.
The enhanced service aims to ease travel for passengers from East Champaran and neighbouring districts, as well as traders and residents of Nepal and the border town of Raxaul, long underserved by direct train links to Howrah.
The train covers a distance of 697 km between Raxaul and Howrah in approximately 16 hours. At present, it runs twice a week—departing Raxaul at 8.30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays, and arriving in Howrah at 12.20pm the next day. The route includes key stops at Bargania, Sitamarhi, and Darbhanga.
Railway officials said the service may be converted into a daily train based on passenger demand. The new rake comprises 18 coaches, including one Second AC, two Third AC, nine Sleeper Class, and four General Class coaches, offering a wider range of options for long-distance travellers.
The improved train service is also expected to benefit pilgrims travelling to religious destinations such as Deoghar, Janakpur, and Darbhanga—regions with deep spiritual connections for devotees from Bihar and Nepal, including those of Baba Bholenath and Maa Janaki.
Railway authorities and local representatives hailed the development as a step toward improving regional mobility, trade, and tourism in the Indo-Nepal border region.
