Patna: Train services on the newly constructed rail bridge parallel to the Rajendra Rail Bridge in Mokama are expected to begin from October 5, following the completion of pre-Non-Interlocking (pre-NI) and Non-Interlocking (NI) works.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety inspected the new infrastructure on Saturday, including the track, electrification facilities and signalling systems. A further inspection is scheduled for Sunday, with train operations expected to begin if the systems are found satisfactory.
Safety And Infrastructure Inspected
During Saturday’s inspection, the Commissioner of Railway Safety examined the eastern line of the main bridge between Rajendra Bridge and Hathidah.
The inspection also covered the railway line and associated systems extending towards Viaduct-1 on the Howrah side, between Rampur and Dumra. The rail section covered by the project is approximately 13 km long.
The project includes three new electronic interlocking systems, two interlocked level-crossing gates and an automatic signalling system. These installations are intended to improve operational safety and increase the capacity of the route.
New Bridge To Ease Rail Movement
The new bridge has been constructed parallel to the existing Rajendra Rail Bridge to provide an additional rail crossing over the Ganga.
The existing bridge’s single-line configuration has been a constraint on rail operations, while widening it to accommodate a second line was not considered feasible. The new bridge is therefore expected to provide additional capacity between north and south Bihar.
Expected Relief During Festival Season
The proposed opening comes ahead of the Diwali and Chhath festival period, when rail traffic to Bihar typically increases and special trains are operated to meet passenger demand.
The introduction of regular train operations over the new bridge, alongside special services, is expected to provide additional capacity and reduce operational constraints on the route.
