Rajgir: With the annual Malmas Mela set to begin in Rajgir, Indian Railways has announced a special train between Rajgir and Howrah to manage the expected rise in passenger traffic. The additional train service will operate from May 16 to June 17 and is expected to provide relief to travellers heading to the religious fair as well as tourists visiting the historic town during the summer holidays.
Rajgir in Bihar attracts lakhs of visitors every year for the Malmas Mela, an important religious event that brings pilgrims from across the country. During this period, railway stations and trains in the region often witness heavy congestion. Officials said the new special service has been introduced to ease pressure on regular trains, which often become overcrowded during the fair. The move is also expected to improve travel convenience for people coming from Kolkata and nearby areas.
According to the announced schedule, train number 03029, the Howrah-Rajgir Special, will depart from Howrah Junction at 10:50pm on May 16 and reach Rajgir at 1pm on the next day. On its return journey, train number 03030, the Rajgir-Howrah Special, will leave Rajgir at 2pm on May 17 and arrive in Howrah at about 4:30am the next morning. Railway authorities said the service will continue throughout the month to support the increased number of passengers during the fair and vacation season.
The special train will stop at several stations, including Kiul, Abhaipur, Jamalpur, Bhagalpur, Sahibganj, Pakur and Rampurhat. It will have 14 coaches, including eight general coaches, two sleeper coaches and two SLR coaches. Officials said the arrangement is aimed at making travel easier for pilgrims and tourists, as Rajgir remains one of Bihar’s most popular destinations during both religious gatherings and summer vacations.
