The Railway Board has announced a series of major connectivity enhancements and operational upgrades for passengers traveling across the Bhagalpur, Jamalpur, Munger, and Kiul rail sections following a high-level meeting at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi. Dr. Manoj Kumar Singh, Member of Operations and Business Development for the Railway Board, met with Ashutosh Kumar, former Zila Parishad member from Ghosait, Abhaipur, alongside Executive Director (Coaching-1) Sudesh Kumar and Ramakant Singh to address long-standing commuter demands in the region. These much-awaited changes aim to improve passenger comfort, reduce travel time, and streamline train operations for millions of daily commuters. The Railway Board has approved a feasibility study for a new Jamalpur-Patna Fast Intercity train, upgraded the Ahmedabad-Bhagalpur Amrit Bharat Express into a superfast service with AC coaches, and increased the frequency of the Howrah-Rajgir TOD special train to four days a week. Additional updates include streamlining the Jamalpur-Jasidih MEMU under a single train number and adding a first-class AC coach to the Bhagalpur-Anand Vihar Vikramshila Express.
Key Operational Changes for Bihar Rail Commuters
A feasibility report will be prepared for the operation of the Jamalpur-Patna Fast Intercity train, addressing a vital demand for a quicker direct link between the region and the state capital. Additionally, the Ahmedabad-Bhagalpur Amrit Bharat Express will now operate as a superfast train and incorporate AC coaches to enhance passenger comfort during long-distance journeys.
Frequency and Coach Upgrades
Travelers on the Howrah-Rajgir (Natesar) route will benefit from an increase in the frequency of the Howrah-Rajgir TOD special train from three days to four days per week, along with the addition of an AC two-tier coach. Furthermore, commuters traveling on the Bhagalpur-Anand Vihar Vikramshila Express can now look forward to the inclusion of a first-class AC coach.
Simplifying MEMU Operations
To resolve operational inconveniences, the Jamalpur-Jasidih MEMU will now operate under a single train number for the entire route, completely eliminating the previous requirement for passengers to change trains mid-journey. Ashutosh Kumar extended his gratitude to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Babu), and Dr. Manoj Kumar Singh for their swift and positive response to the region’s transport needs. These comprehensive upgrades are set to bring immense relief and convenience to everyday travelers across Bihar.