Shailendra Prasad, Chief Administrative Officer (North Construction) of East Central Railway, visited Saharsa on Thursday, July 30, 2026, to inspect the progress of critical infrastructure projects. The visit focused on the status of railway gate number 31 and the development of the approach road connecting Bengali Market and Thana Chowk. Key takeaways from the inspection include:
- Railway Gate No. 31 at Bengali Market Dhala is set for permanent closure to facilitate yard remodeling.
- Construction of a new cabin began in January 2026, with completion expected by February 2027.
- A new 110-meter long and 11-meter wide road is being built to connect with the existing approach network.
- The space vacated by the closed gate will be utilized for platform expansion and increased line capacity.
- An alternative route parallel to the Bengali Market dhala, reaching Gangjala railway dhala, is already open for public use.
Strategic Infrastructure Upgrades in Saharsa
During his field assessment, CAO Shailendra Prasad reviewed the construction quality of the new approach road and expressed satisfaction with the pace of work. He directed officials and construction agencies to maintain this momentum to ensure the project meets its deadlines. The decision to permanently close gate number 31 marks a significant shift from the initial plan, which had only proposed a temporary 212-meter relocation. This change was necessitated by the ongoing Rail Overbridge (ROB) construction, which now allows for a more permanent and efficient traffic management solution.
Benefits for Passengers and Local Traffic
The primary objective of these infrastructure changes is to optimize traffic management in Saharsa while simultaneously boosting the railway’s operational efficiency. By closing the existing gate, the railway gains the necessary land to expand platforms and remodel the yard. This expansion is essential for enabling the operation of more trains in the future, directly benefiting passengers who rely on better connectivity.
For the local residents, the railway has prioritized public convenience by ensuring that an alternative wide paved road is already operational. This route serves as a seamless bypass, effectively reducing the congestion previously associated with the Bengali Market dhala. As the project nears its final stages, these upgrades are expected to transform the daily commute for local citizens while positioning Saharsa as a more robust hub within the East Central Railway network.