Patna: The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) has prepared and submitted the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed high-speed rail corridor connecting Delhi with Siliguri via Varanasi and Patna, according to information available on the project.
The proposed corridor is expected to cover about 865 km. In Bihar, the route will pass through Patna and other districts, potentially improving high-speed rail connectivity between the state and major urban centres in northern India.
Officials To Be Appointed
The project is also moving towards strengthening its administrative and technical team. Indian Railways has invited applications from senior officials, with appointments expected to be completed within 30 days, according to a railway official.
Two notifications issued on September 7 outlined appointments at the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) and Assistant General Manager (AGM) levels. Three officers are proposed at each level to oversee project-related work.
Officials will be associated with operations across Patna, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi and Noida, as work on the proposed corridor progresses.
Patna-Delhi Journey Could Become Faster
The proposed high-speed rail service could reduce the travel time between Patna and Delhi from the current rail journey of roughly 10 to 12 hours to around four to five hours, once the corridor becomes operational.
For passengers travelling between Bihar and Delhi-NCR, the shorter journey could improve access to employment, education and business opportunities. It could also make travel during peak periods such as Diwali and Chhath more convenient.
Wider Connectivity For Bihar
The benefits of the proposed corridor would extend beyond Patna if the planned route is implemented. Faster connections with Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and other major centres could support business travel, tourism, education and investment.
However, the project remains at the planning and development stage. The DPR has been submitted to the Ministry of Railways, while further approvals, planning and implementation steps will determine the project’s timeline and eventual operations.
