The ambitious redevelopment of Kishanganj and Thakurganj railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has achieved a significant milestone, with officials confirming that 60% of the project is now complete. With a target set for full completion by early 2027, these stations are undergoing a major transformation to improve passenger infrastructure and operational capacity across the region.
Key updates regarding the project:
- Investment: ₹42 crore allocated for Kishanganj and ₹27.80 crore for Thakurganj station.
- NFR Oversight: Katihar DRM Kirendra Narah inspected Thakurganj on July 21, 2026, to review progress.
- Future Expansion: Plans include yard expansion and the doubling of critical rail sections to boost connectivity.
- Challenges: Recent reports highlighted issues with amenity maintenance, including leaking sheds and missing infrastructure.
Progress and Operational Challenges
While the infrastructure work continues at a steady pace, the project has faced scrutiny regarding passenger amenities. During recent inspections, officials noted concerns at Thakurganj station, specifically regarding incomplete structures, leaking platform sheds, and a lack of cold drinking water facilities. Additionally, security and cleanliness remain a priority; following an incident where 12 fans went missing from the new Foot Over Bridge, and reports of poor station hygiene, Senior ADRM Ajay Singh has ordered a special cleanliness drive and strict penalties for littering.
Future Connectivity and Network Expansion
Beyond the station building upgrades, Thakurganj is being positioned as a major future junction. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has received approval for doubling the Thakurganj-Siliguri (56 km) and Thakurganj-Aluabari Road (19 km) sections. Furthermore, a technical survey for the 111 km Thakurganj-Araria section is complete, and a new 27 km line between Thakurganj and Chatarhat is in the pipeline.
These combined projects, which aim to create a new rail network of 213 km, alongside proposals for a new Kishanganj station and rail shed, are expected to significantly enhance multi-modal connectivity. By fostering better regional economic activity, the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme continues to play a vital role in modernizing the railway landscape for thousands of daily commuters in the region.