Nalanda/Patna: Train maintenance on the Gaya route of East Central Railway is set for a significant overhaul with the Railway Board approving a new coaching complex at Biharsharif at an estimated cost of Rs 495 crore.
The facility, proposed by East Central Railway, will be developed on the model of the Rajendra Nagar coaching complex and will provide facilities for train cleaning, washing, inspection and repairs.
The new complex is planned between Biharsharif and Pawapuri. Construction is expected to begin after the required budget is allocated, with the Railways targeting completion in about two years.
Trains Will No Longer Need To Go To Patna
At present, several trains operating on the Gaya route are taken to the Rajendra Nagar coaching complex in Patna for cleaning and maintenance.
The movement of trains to and from Patna for these services consumes operational time and resources. Once the Biharsharif facility becomes operational, maintenance work can be carried out closer to the route.
The Railways expects this to reduce the movement of empty rakes and allow trains to be returned to service more quickly.
Biharsharif Chosen After Site Assessment
Railway authorities had earlier considered Sheikhpura and Biharsharif as possible locations for the coaching complex.
Following surveys and an assessment of operational requirements, Biharsharif was selected as the preferred site.
The location is expected to serve the wider Gaya-Nawada-Biharsharif-Patna rail network.
Potential To Support More Trains
The Gaya route has seen increased train traffic and operational pressure in recent years. Improved connectivity between Patna and Nawada has also strengthened the region’s rail links with the capital.
According to railway officials, Biharsharif is about 31km from Nawada, while the distance between Biharsharif and Patna is around 79km, giving a combined rail distance of approximately 110km.
The new maintenance facility is expected to improve the availability of cleaning, inspection and repair services while reducing the turnaround time for coaches.
Railway authorities also see the project as creating scope for additional train services between Gaya, Nawada, Biharsharif and Patna in the future.
Once completed, the modern coaching complex is expected to become a major maintenance hub for this section of East Central Railway, supporting more efficient and reliable train operations.
