Patna: A long-pending 188km railway line project in Bihar has regained momentum, with Indian Railways initiating the final alignment survey for a route connecting Sitamarhi to Nirmali via Sursand and Jaynagar. The move has raised expectations of improved connectivity in several underserved border areas.
Railway officials said the survey, now in its tendering stage, is expected to be completed within four months. Once finalised, the project is likely to move swiftly into subsequent phases, including approvals and construction.
The proposed line is expected to transform access for multiple blocks in Sitamarhi district — including Bathnaha, Sonbarsa, Parihar, Sursand, Bhitthamore and Choraut — which currently lack direct rail connectivity. Residents in these areas must travel to nearby towns such as Sitamarhi, Bajpatti or Pupri to board trains.
According to preliminary plans, the route will begin at Sitamarhi Junction and pass through Amghatta, Bhagwatipur, Bhairokothi, Bathnaha, Madhopur, Dighi, Bela, Parsakala, Sonbarsa, Parihar, Sursand, Bhitthamore, Choraut and Jaynagar before terminating at Nirmali. Several new stations are also proposed along the corridor.
In a recent update, Mahboob Alam, chief engineer (construction) of East Central Railway, informed Bihar’s minister for energy, planning and development, Bijendra Prasad Yadav, that the survey tender process had formally commenced.
The project was originally approved in 2008–09 but stalled in 2019. It was revived after the Railway Board granted fresh approval on September 29, 2025 allowing survey work to resume.
If completed, the railway line is expected to boost economic activity in the region, particularly in areas close to the Nepal border. Improved transport links could ease the movement of agricultural produce to larger markets and support local trade and small industries.
The line may also enhance cross-border mobility and provide a fillip to religious and cultural tourism in the Mithila region, while offering residents a more affordable and time-efficient travel option.
