Patna: A special train service between Rajgir and Patna will now operate on a regular basis, in a move expected to ease travel for daily commuters and support tourism in the region.
The decision, approved by the Ministry of Railways, follows a long-standing demand from passengers. Vinod Kumar, divisional railway manager of the Danapur division, has issued a formal communication confirming the regularisation of the service.
The train is likely to benefit a wide range of travellers, including small business owners, office workers and tourists who frequently travel between the two cities. Rajgir, a key tourist destination, attracts visitors throughout the year, and a direct, reliable rail link from Patna is expected to reduce travel difficulties significantly.
A flag-off ceremony is scheduled to take place at Rajgir railway station on Monday. The local MP, Kaushalendra Kumar, is expected to inaugurate the service. He had earlier raised the issue in the Lok Sabha and said he would continue to advocate for improved rail infrastructure and public services in the Nalanda region.
The move comes alongside efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Rajgir. Facilities at the Rajgir Zoo Safari and the Nature Safari have recently been upgraded, including the introduction of a “priority package” allowing access to both attractions with a single ticket priced at Rs 2,000 for adults and Rs 1,000 for children.
Railway authorities said the timing of the decision would also help passengers during the upcoming summer travel season. Additional special train services to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Punjab and Kolkata have already been announced as part of broader efforts to manage increased passenger demand.
