Patna: Bihar is set for a sweeping overhaul of its railway network, with plans to lay nearly 1,000 kilometres of new rail lines by 2031. The expansion, backed by an allocation of Rs 10,379 crore in the 2026–27 budget, is expected to reshape passenger and freight movement across the state.
The blueprint includes work on 30 separate projects, combining the doubling of 20 existing routes with the construction of 10 new rail lines. Among the most significant approvals is the addition of third and fourth lines between Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction, Patna and Jhajha—a corridor that routinely experiences heavy traffic.
Another key component is the third and fourth line project between Punpun and Kiul, estimated to cost Rs 2,668 crore. The 49.57km stretch will pass through Patna and Lakhisarai districts. Officials say the added capacity will ease congestion on the Patna–Kiul–Jhajha section, reduce travel time and improve operational efficiency.
Initial funds have already been released by the Railway Board, with further allocations to follow once detailed project reports are finalised. Railway authorities say the wider objective is to increase train frequency, minimise delays and strengthen freight transport, particularly on routes that connect industrial and agricultural hubs.
Other projects under the plan include the doubling of the Samastipur–Hasanpur–Khagaria line and the construction and doubling of the Sakri–Forbesganj route. New lines such as Lalitgram–Birpur and Aurangabad–Bihta are also proposed, alongside the extension of the Ara–Sasaram line and improved freight corridor connectivity. Enhancements to railway facilities in Patna are part of the broader modernisation drive.
