Patna: The construction of a new double-track rail bridge across the Ganga, built parallel to the historic Rajendra Setu, is nearing completion, with Indian Railways preparing to commission the structure after final trials.
Railway officials say the bridge will bring long-awaited relief to the heavily used Mokama–Barauni rail section, where trains have for decades been forced to crawl across a single track, causing chronic delays and limiting capacity.
Stretching 1.86 kilometres across the river, the new bridge has been constructed using modern engineering techniques and steel sleepers, allowing trains to operate at speeds of up to 110 km/h. Once opened, it will enable simultaneous movement of trains in both directions, significantly increasing throughput and cutting travel times.
The project, with an estimated cost of about Rs 1,500 crore, was launched in 2016. Its progress was slowed by technical challenges, fluctuating water levels of the Ganga and the complexity of working alongside an operational bridge. Despite these obstacles, construction continued in phases and has now reached the final stage, nearly a decade later.
Railway officials say the benefits will extend beyond passenger services. Freight movement between north and south Bihar is also expected to improve, strengthening logistics links across the river. Passengers travelling to and from Patna, Begusarai, Khagaria, Munger and neighbouring districts are among those likely to see immediate gains.
The new structure, located about 60 metres from the existing bridge on the Patna side, forms part of a fully electrified double-track corridor with a total length of about 14 kilometres, including approach lines. On the northern end, it connects to Hathidah, Tal and Rampur Dumra stations, while on the southern side it links Rajendra Pul with Barauni.
Railway managers also see the project as a safety measure. By diverting traffic to the new bridge, the load on the ageing Rajendra Setu will be reduced, potentially extending its service life.
“The construction work is complete and preparations are under way to begin train operations soon,” said Vinod Kumar, divisional railway manager of the Danapur division. Trial runs are expected to be completed shortly, after which the bridge will be opened for general traffic.
