Patna: A new double-track rail bridge across the Ganges between Hathidah and Simaria in Bihar is expected to become operational by the end of 2026, a development railway officials say will significantly ease congestion on one of the state’s most critical rail corridors.
The 1.86km bridge, being built parallel to the ageing Rajendra Setu, is designed to allow two trains to run at the same time. Combined with the existing single rail line on the Rajendra bridge, this would enable up to three trains to cross the river simultaneously, ending years of signal-related delays for passengers and freight.
The project, awarded in 2018 by East Central Railway to Mumbai-based Afcons Infrastructure at an estimated cost of Rs 1,700 crore, has faced repeated delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and annual flooding of the Ganges. Officials now say more than 90% of the construction has been completed, with work remaining on one pier and the launching of the superstructure.
The bridge has been engineered to accommodate high-speed trains such as Vande Bharat and Namo Bharat services. Its superstructure alone will use around 20,000 tonnes of steel. Built on a well foundation system, the bridge comprises 18 piers sunk 65–70 metres deep, with 17 spans of varying lengths, including thirteen major spans of 123 metres each.
Railway authorities say the new crossing will improve connectivity between Bihar and the rest of the country, including the north-eastern states, while also increasing capacity for freight movement. Several goods and passenger trains currently diverted to longer routes because of congestion on the single-track Rajendra Setu are expected to be rerouted via the new bridge.
The project also includes extensive upgrades to nearby stations on both sides of the river. Rajendra Pul station is being redeveloped with additional tracks, three platforms, foot overbridges and a new station building, while Hathidah Junction will gain four upgraded platforms on the upper rail alignment, equipped with modern passenger facilities.
At present, trains are routinely held at outer signals on both sides of the river, leading to delays between Barauni, Aunta and Rampur Dumra. Railway officials say the new bridge and its associated approach lines, overbridges and underpasses will eliminate these stoppages and reduce travel time.
Track-laying has already been completed on large sections of both lines, and electrification work is under way. Once construction is finished, the bridge will undergo inspection and trial runs by the Commissioner of Railway Safety before being opened to traffic.
