Patna: Train operations on the new double-line rail bridge over the Ganga at Mokama in Bihar are expected to begin soon, as the project moves into its final clearance stage. Railway authorities have submitted all required documents to the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) for statutory inspection.
The inspection is likely to be conducted next month, after which approval for starting train services may be granted, officials said.
CRS Inspection and Approval Process
According to Birendra Kumar, Assistant Divisional Railway Manager (Operations), Danapur Division, all documentation required for CRS inspection has been completed and submitted.
He said the next steps will depend on the CRS scheduling the inspection. Once clearance is issued, preparations will begin for introducing both passenger and freight train services on the bridge.
Bridge Specifications and Capacity
The new rail bridge spans approximately 1.86 kilometres across the Ganga River at Mokama. It has been constructed as a double-line structure using modern engineering standards, including steel sleepers to improve stability and operational safety.
Railway officials said trains on the bridge will be capable of running at speeds of up to 110 kmph, which is expected to reduce travel time on the route.
Reduced Pressure on Existing Infrastructure
At present, train movement in the Mokama section depends largely on the single-line structure of the Rajendra Setu, leading to congestion and delays.
Rajendra Setu has been under operational pressure due to high traffic volume. The new bridge is expected to ease this load by enabling simultaneous movement of trains in both directions.
Project Timeline and Cost
The foundation stone for the project was laid in 2016, with construction beginning the same year. The estimated cost of the project is around Rs 1,500 crore.
While the original deadline was December 2023, the project faced delays over the years. Officials now say construction work has been completed and the bridge is ready for commissioning pending final approval.
Regional Connectivity Impact
The operationalisation of the bridge is expected to benefit passengers across Patna, Begusarai, Khagaria and Munger districts, improving both passenger and freight movement.
Railway officials said the new link will strengthen connectivity between North and South Bihar while also reducing stress on existing rail infrastructure in the region.
