Bihar: Bihar is poised for significant railway infrastructure development with plans to establish ring networks in Patna and Bhagalpur, officials announced Monday, as part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance connectivity across the state.
Ring Network Plans in Bihar
The proposed Patna ring network will connect Phulwari, Hajipur, Sonpur, and Danapur before returning to Phulwari, creating a circular rail route. The Bhagalpur network is designed to link Kahalgaon, Nawagachia, Khagaria, Munger, Barauni, and Sultanganj, completing the circuit back to Bhagalpur.
Terminal and Track Enhancements
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary outlined additional infrastructure improvements, including a new terminal at Patna Junction and a mega coaching terminal at Phulwari. The state will also see construction of third and fourth tracks between Jhajha and Dehri-on-Sone (DDU). Approval has been granted for double-tracking the Bakhtiyarpur-Rajgir line, while the Sultanganj-Katoria new line project has already received clearance.
New Train Services
Monday’s announcement coincided with the inauguration of three new Amrit Bharat trains and four passenger services. During the event, MP Vivek Thakur disclosed that a 25.10 km new railway line from Nawada to Pawapuri has been approved with an estimated cost of ₹492.14 crore. The project targets development in Nawada and Nalanda districts while expanding tourism infrastructure in the region.
The expansion is expected to facilitate travel between Parasnath and Pawapuri, strengthening connections that will particularly benefit religious tourism along Bihar’s Jain circuit. Enhanced connectivity between Rajgir and Bihar Sharif represents another key outcome of the initiative.
Development Significance
These infrastructure projects mark a substantial investment in Bihar’s railway network, addressing long-standing connectivity gaps while supporting economic development and tourism sectors. The ring networks will provide circular connectivity in two major urban centers, potentially reducing travel time and improving freight movement.
The initiatives align with broader efforts to modernize Bihar’s transportation infrastructure and position the state as a better-connected region for commerce, pilgrimage, and travel. Implementation timelines for the various projects were not specified in Monday’s announcement, though officials emphasized the comprehensive nature of the planned railway expansion across multiple corridors.
