Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to unveil a slew of railway projects in Bihar during his visit to Motihari on July 18, including the launch of two new Amrit Bharat trains and several infrastructure initiatives aimed at bolstering the state’s railway network.
The Prime Minister will virtually flag off the Patna–New Delhi and Darbhanga–Lucknow Amrit Bharat trains. Though final details regarding their timetable and fares are yet to be announced, both services will operate as sleeper-class, non-air-conditioned trains, expected to cut travel time by at least 20%. Initially, the trains will run as special inaugural services, with regular operations to be determined later. Capable of reaching speeds up to 130 kmph, the average speed will be finalised following trial runs, according to railway officials. Rakes for the new trains are scheduled to arrive in Patna and Darbhanga within the next few days.
The visit will also mark the laying of the foundation stone for a Rs 283 crore Vande Bharat maintenance facility at Patliputra Coaching Complex. The site will include five lines dedicated to the daily upkeep of Vande Bharat trains, with construction tenders already finalised.
In addition,PM Modi will launch the Rs 4,079 crore Darbhanga–Narkatiaganj track doubling project. This initiative is expected to increase train speeds and pave the way for the introduction of new services. The Prime Minister will also dedicate a 580 km automatic signalling system between Samastipur and Bachhwara, and inaugurate another signalling project worth Rs 153 crore between Bhatni and Chhapra.
