Patna: Indian Railways is evaluating two new routes for the Namo Bharat (formerly Vande Metro) train in Bihar, after the successful launch of the Patna-Jayanagar service last month. Authorities are now assessing the feasibility of operating the train between Patna and Buxar or Patna and Gaya, potentially expanding high-speed intra-state connectivity.
Currently, the Namo Bharat train from Jaynagar halts at Patna Junction for around eight hours—arriving at 10am and departing for Jaynagar around 6pm. Officials say this downtime presents an opportunity to utilise the train on an additional short route.
“No final decision has been made yet,” said Aadhar Raj, Additional Divisional Railway Manager of the Danapur Division. “The train will be run on the route that proves most practical and convenient.”
The Namo Bharat train was inaugurated on April 24 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via virtual flag-off. Designed for short-distance travel between urban centres, the fully air-conditioned service currently runs six days a week. Fares range from Rs 85 to Rs 340, catering to a range of commuters.
