Patna: The Indian Railways has announced the commencement of construction on the Sultanganj-Katoria railway line in Bihar, a move set to ease travel for Shiva devotees across the country. The 74.8-kilometre project will pass through Asarganj, Tarapur, and Belhar, with stations planned at Sultanganj, Katoria, Asarganj, Tarapur, Belhar, Srinagar, and Suyabathan.
Katoria station, currently on the Banka-Jasidih line, will be upgraded to a junction, significantly improving regional connectivity. Upon completion, thousands of pilgrims carrying holy water to Deoghar will benefit from a shorter and more direct route. The current journey from Sultanganj to Deoghar via Bhagalpur, Banka, and Katoria is approximately 131 kilometres; the new line will reduce this distance to about 101 kilometres.
The project, estimated to cost around Rs 1,261 crore, is expected to be a major boon for both pilgrims and local communities, enhancing transport links in the region.
