Patna: The Railways has announced the cancellation of the Raxaul–Hyderabad Weekly Express for over four months, from July to mid-November, affecting passengers travelling between North Bihar and southern India. The train operates via key routes including Dhanbad, Bokaro, and Ranchi.
Officials said the prolonged suspension is likely to cause significant inconvenience, especially during the festive season. The demand for this train peaks during Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath, when thousands of passengers travel between Bihar and southern states. With the train remaining cancelled during this period, commuters will be forced to seek alternative travel arrangements.
In a related development, the South Bihar Express, which runs via Asansol, will also see partial operational changes during the same period. Instead of its usual route, the train will operate between Ara and Rourkela, and in the return direction from Rourkela to Ara.
According to a notification issued by the Railways, the disruptions are due to scheduled maintenance work on both the up and down railway lines between Kansbahal and Dharuadihi in the Chakradharpur division. A traffic block will be imposed to facilitate the maintenance work, leading to cancellations and route changes.
The Raxaul–Hyderabad Express (Train No. 17005) will remain cancelled on July 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30; August 6, 13, 20, and 27; September 3, 10, 17, and 24; October 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29; and November 5 and 12.
Similarly, the Hyderabad–Raxaul Express (Train No. 17006) will be cancelled on July 5, 12, 19, and 26; August 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30; September 6, 13, 20, and 27; October 4, 11, 18, and 25; and November 1, 8, and 15.
Railway authorities have advised passengers to check train schedules in advance and plan their journeys accordingly.
