Patna: The proposed bullet train project in Bihar has once again gained attention, bringing fresh hope for faster and more modern travel in the region. Indian Railways has formed a survey team to begin groundwork for a high-speed rail corridor that will connect Varanasi to Siliguri through several key cities in Bihar. The survey is expected to start around July or August 2026, marking an important step forward for a project that has been discussed for years.
The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) is leading the project and aims to complete the survey within the same financial year. After the survey is finished, a detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared. This report will play a crucial role in deciding how the project will move forward, including construction plans, route alignment, and technical details. Officials believe this phase will provide a clear direction for the future of the bullet train corridor.
The total length of the proposed corridor is around 744 kilometres, starting from Varanasi and ending in Siliguri. Along the way, it will pass through important cities in Bihar such as Buxar, Ara, Patna, Mokama, Begusarai and Katihar. The train is expected to run at a speed of up to 300 km/h, which will greatly reduce travel time. According to early estimates, passengers could travel from Varanasi to Siliguri in less than three hours, while the journey from Delhi to Varanasi may take under four hours.
To build this high-speed corridor, large-scale construction work will be required. Around 650 kilometres of the track in Bihar will likely be elevated, and nearly 1,900 hectares of land may be needed. Special bridges and tunnels will also be constructed to cross rivers and difficult areas. In Patna, a station may be developed near Bihta, as it has been found more suitable than earlier proposed locations. Final decisions on the route, stations and construction model will be taken after the survey report is completed
