In a major boost for connectivity in the Purvanchal region, the Railway Board has officially greenlit the extension of the 15131/15132 Varanasi City–Gorakhpur Express up to Nepalganj Road station. This move is set to provide residents of the border districts with a seamless rail link to major cities like Varanasi and Gorakhpur. The North Eastern Railway, Gorakhpur, has been directed to operationalize this extension at the earliest, marking a significant milestone for regional railway infrastructure.
Key highlights of the new service extension include:
- Direct Rail Connectivity: Residents of Bahraich, Shravasti, and Balrampur will now have direct access to the express network.
- Strategic Route: The extended route will cover key stations including Gonda, Payagpur, Bahraich, Rasia, Nanpara, and Nepalganj Road.
- Regional Growth: The service aims to promote religious tourism and trade by reducing reliance on road transport in the border areas.
- Operational Status: While approval is granted, the official commencement date will be announced by the authorities shortly.
Connecting the Border Regions
Local Member of Parliament Dr. Anand Gond highlighted that this extension addresses a long-standing demand from the residents of the Nepal border area. By introducing this express service, the Indian Railways is effectively bridging the gap between remote bordering regions and the major urban hubs of Uttar Pradesh. For passengers travelling from areas like Rasia and Nanpara, this represents the first direct express connectivity to the broader rail network.
Boosting Trade and Tourism
Beyond passenger convenience, the decision is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. Improved rail access is synonymous with better trade prospects and increased footfall for religious tourism sites across the region. By providing a reliable and cost-effective alternative to road travel, the 15131/15132 extension is poised to become a lifeline for daily commuters and traders alike. Railway enthusiasts and local residents are now advised to keep a close watch on official announcements regarding the specific launch date and updated time table for this extended route.