Patna: Indian Railways has approved the construction of a 54-km third rail line between Kiul and Jhajha at an estimated cost of Rs 962 crore, according to an official statement issued by the Press Information Bureau on May 19.
The project is part of the High Traffic Density Network of Indian Railways and is intended to enhance capacity and operational efficiency on the Howrah-Delhi corridor, one of the busiest rail routes in the country.
Aim to Reduce Congestion on Busy Rail Corridor
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project would significantly improve train movement on the heavily utilised corridor and help increase punctuality and operational flexibility.
According to the ministry, the existing double-line section between Kiul and Jhajha is currently operating beyond optimal capacity levels. Traffic demand on the route is also expected to rise further in the coming years.
Officials said the additional line infrastructure would help reduce congestion and facilitate smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains.
Improved Connectivity Between Bihar and West Bengal
The new third line is expected to strengthen rail connectivity between Patna and Kolkata while supporting freight movement linked to industrial and logistics hubs across Eastern and Northern India.
The route also plays a key role in connecting Kolkata and Haldia ports with Raxaul and the Nepal border region. Railways said the corridor currently handles substantial freight traffic associated with industrial units and logistics facilities, including Barh Super Thermal Power Project, Jawahar STPP and Birganj Inland Container Depot.
Freight and Industrial Movement Expected to Benefit
Railway officials stated that the project would provide long-term infrastructure support for both passenger and freight operations. The enhanced carrying capacity is expected to improve logistics efficiency and transport reliability between major economic centres.
The ministry added that the project would contribute to smoother rail operations and support regional industrial growth by improving trade connectivity across the corridor.
