The long-awaited dream of rail connectivity for Shravasti is moving closer to reality following a high-level meeting in New Delhi. Former MP Daddan Mishra met with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on August 10, 2026, to discuss the status of the **Bahraich-Khalilabad new rail line project**. The discussion focused on resolving delays in specific districts to ensure the 240-kilometer project stays on track.
Key highlights of the project status include:
- The project was approved by the Central Government in 2018 with an allocated budget of ₹6959 crore.
- Approximately 50% of the required land for the 240-km stretch has already been acquired.
- Forest land diversion processes are complete, and the tendering process is nearing its final stages.
- The line will feature 32 stations, connecting major towns including Bhinaga, Shravasti, Balrampur, Utraula, and Domariyaganj.
Pushing for Faster Progress
During the meeting, Daddan Mishra highlighted the disparity in construction speeds. While work is progressing swiftly in Sant Kabir Nagar and Siddharthnagar, the pace in Bahraich, Shravasti, and Balrampur remains a concern. Mishra urged the Ministry to conduct a high-level review to fast-track land acquisition and survey work. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has provided positive assurance, signaling a renewed push to expedite construction across these regions.
Strategic Importance for the Region
For the residents of Shravasti, this project is a historic milestone. As a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, the district currently lacks any form of rail connectivity. The introduction of train services is expected to be a game-changer for the area, fostering economic growth, boosting tourism, and creating new employment opportunities. By connecting these remote districts to the national rail network, the project aims to transform the trade landscape of the region.
As of August 3, 2026, official updates regarding land acquisition in Shravasti are available on the district’s government portal. With the tendering process nearing completion, authorities expect track laying work to commence in the near future, bringing hope to a region that has waited generations to see its first train.