Patna/Aurangabad: In a significant boost to rail connectivity in Bihar, the Railway Board has approved the laying of a new 13-km railway line between Aurangabad and Anugrah Narayan Road, marking the first phase of the ambitious 120-km Aurangabad–Bihta rail project. The development paves the way for faster, direct connectivity between Patna and Aurangabad, potentially cutting travel time by nearly an hour.
With land acquisition already underway with the assistance of East Central Railway officials and the Aurangabad District Administration, construction on the initial stretch is expected to begin in May 2025. The second phase — a 107-km railway line from Anugrah Narayan Road to Bihta (Patna) via Arwal — is also progressing rapidly. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been finalized and will be submitted to the Railway Board by April 15.
Railway Board Nod Expected Soon
According to Saraswati Chandra, Chief Public Relations Officer of East Central Railway, the DPR submission is a critical milestone. “Approval is expected within 15–20 days, as a Railway Board official had personally directed the preparation of the report,” he said.
Project Highlights:
- Total length: ~120 km
- Estimated cost: ₹4,075 crore
- First phase: 13 km (Anugrah Narayan Road to Aurangabad) – Approved
- Second phase: 107 km (Anugrah Narayan Road to Bihta via Arwal) – DPR ready
- Funding for Phase 1: ₹440.59 crore approved
- Total stations: 14 stations + 10 halts
- Population to benefit: ~75 lakh residents across Aurangabad, Arwal, and Patna districts
Long-Pending Project Finally Moves
Notably, the foundation stone for this project was laid back in 2007, but it remained stalled due to bureaucratic delays and lack of approvals. The recent Railway Board green light has revived hopes for faster implementation.
Once completed, the rail line will reduce travel time from Patna to Aurangabad from three hours to nearly two, providing significant relief for daily commuters and boosting economic activities in the region.
“This project will transform rail connectivity for central Bihar. With 14 stations across 120 km, it will serve both urban and rural populations, reducing dependence on road transport,” added the CPRO.
What’s Next?
- May 2025: Start of construction for the 13-km line (Aurangabad–Anugrah Narayan Road)
- June 2025: Expected start of construction on the 107-km stretch post Railway Board approval
- Land acquisition: Ongoing in Aurangabad district, with other districts to follow post-approval
The project is expected to not only improve regional mobility but also aid in freight movement, employment generation, and infrastructure development across central Bihar.
