Patna, June 19: Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday announced a major expansion plan for Bihar’s railway network, highlighting a record allocation of more than ₹10,000 crore and ongoing projects worth nearly ₹1.15 lakh crore aimed at strengthening connectivity, capacity and industrial growth in the state.
Speaking to reporters after arriving in Patna, the Railway Minister said the development of railway infrastructure in Bihar was entering a new phase with several large-scale projects underway. He said the focus was not only on improving passenger facilities but also on creating a modern rail ecosystem that supports economic growth and employment.
Vaishnaw announced the launch of a new express train service connecting Chhapra and Delhi, calling it an important step towards meeting the long-standing demand of passengers from the region. The new service is expected to improve direct connectivity between Bihar and the national capital while reducing travel difficulties for residents of Saran and nearby districts.
The Minister also highlighted major infrastructure upgrades planned in the Patna region. He said a new railway station with five additional platforms is being developed at Hardinge Park to increase capacity and improve passenger movement in the capital city. He added that Fatuha, located near Patna, is also witnessing significant railway development to support future requirements.
Emphasising the broader transformation of Bihar’s railway sector, Vaishnaw said the state is now witnessing unprecedented investment in rail infrastructure. He stated that the projects are aimed at improving operational efficiency, reducing congestion and preparing the network for future growth.
The Railway Minister also highlighted Bihar’s growing role in railway manufacturing under the Make in India initiative. He said locomotives produced at the Marhowrah manufacturing facility in Bihar are now being exported to international markets, showcasing India’s increasing capabilities in advanced railway production.
He informed that the 51st locomotive manufactured at the Bihar facility would be exported to Guinea in Africa, marking another milestone for India’s railway manufacturing sector. The export reflects the growing global acceptance of Indian-built railway technology.
BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy welcomed the launch of the Chhapra-Delhi Express, describing it as a significant development for the people of the region. He said the direct connectivity would benefit thousands of passengers who previously had to depend on nearby stations such as Sonpur or Varanasi for travel arrangements.
Rudy said the new train service represented a response to a long-standing public demand and would strengthen the connection between Bihar and Delhi. He added that the initiative would especially benefit people from Saran and surrounding areas by providing easier access to the national capital.
The announcements underline the government’s broader effort to modernise railway infrastructure across Bihar through new projects, station redevelopment, improved passenger services and expansion of manufacturing capabilities.
With increased investment, upgraded facilities and rising export potential, Bihar’s railway sector is emerging as an important contributor to regional development and India’s vision of a stronger transportation network.
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