Diya Behl
Patna: Bihar is set to welcome four new Vande Bharat Express trains, drastically reducing travel times across the state. The addition of these high-speed trains is a significant boost for the region’s rail infrastructure, with the first of the four expected to launch later this year and the remaining three by 2025.
The new services will cut journey times by up to five hours, transforming what is currently a 10-hour trip into a brisk 5-6 hour journey. Two of the new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate directly from Patna, enhancing connectivity to major destinations. One will serve the Patna-Malda-Tatanagar route, while the other will link Gaya with Kolkata and Muzaffarpur with Delhi. The Patna-Tatanagar service is slated to commence in 2024, with the rest following in 2025.
In preparation for these additions, the Indian Railways is undertaking substantial upgrades. New 60 kg tracks are being laid, and a dedicated coaching complex is being constructed near Patliputra Junction at an investment of Rs. 200 crore. This facility will ensure efficient maintenance for the Vande Bharat trains, including those running on the Patna-Howrah, Patna-Ranchi, Patna-Gomtinagar, and New Jalpaiguri-Patna routes.
Additionally, the Rajendra Nagar Coaching Complex is receiving a Rs. 20 crore upgrade to accommodate the new trains. Enhancements include platform modifications and the installation of advanced testing equipment. Staff training for maintenance and operational tasks is also underway to support the seamless introduction of these state-of-the-art trains.
