Patna: The Union government has announced a significant expansion of railway infrastructure in Bihar, including plans for a new rail terminal in Patna, as part of a broader push to improve connectivity and passenger facilities across the state.
According to budget provisions, around Rs 500 crore has been allocated for the construction of a new rail terminal at Hardinge Park in the state capital. Once completed, the terminal is expected to ease pressure on Patna Junction and Rajendra Nagar Terminal, while improving passenger amenities and operational efficiency. Construction work is expected to gather pace following the budgetary clearance.
The budget also sanctions the construction of third and fourth railway lines between Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Junction and Jhajha at an estimated cost of Rs 17,000 crore. The project will be implemented in phases, with funds earmarked to ensure its completion, and is expected to significantly enhance train movement on one of eastern India’s busiest rail corridors.
Among other key connectivity projects is a proposed new railway line between Bihta and Aurangabad. The line will be developed in two stages—first from Bihta to Anugrah Narayan Road, and then onwards to Aurangabad. Detailed project-wise allocations are expected to be confirmed after the release of the Railways’ Pink Book.
Railway construction is also underway in several other parts of Bihar. Work has recently begun on a 188-kilometre new line connecting Sitamarhi with Jaynagar and Nirmali via Sursand, along with a 22-kilometre stretch from Lalit Gram to Veerpur. In southern Bihar, a new 25.10-kilometre line between Nawada and Pawapuri has been proposed, with a budget allocation of Rs 492.14 crore. Once completed, it will provide direct rail access to Pawapuri, a major Jain pilgrimage centre.
Alongside new lines, the government is accelerating station modernisation under the Amrit Bharat Yojana. Budgetary support has been extended for the redevelopment of several key stations, including Gaya, Begusarai, Barauni, Darbhanga and Madhubani. These upgrades aim to improve passenger experience while supporting tourism and local economic activity.
Officials say the combined impact of new terminals, expanded lines and modernised stations will strengthen Bihar’s railway network, improve freight movement and provide faster, more direct connectivity between major cities and pilgrimage sites. The investments are expected to play a key role in driving the state’s broader economic and social development.
