The railway network in North Bihar is set for a major transformation with several new projects and significant budget allocations moving forward. The Central Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the doubling of 256 kilometers of rail lines at a cost of ₹4,553 crore. These developments aim to improve connectivity between key districts and strengthen strategic links with neighboring Nepal while boosting the local economy.
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What are the major track doubling projects approved?
The government has prioritized doubling the Narkatiaganj-Raksual-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur sections. This initiative is expected to ease congestion and speed up train movement across these busy corridors. Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that these projects will provide better social and economic links for the region. The total cost of these specific doubling projects is estimated at ₹4,553 crore, marking a significant investment in the state’s infrastructure.
Key allocations and upcoming rail lines
Apart from track doubling, several new rail lines are receiving dedicated funds to speed up construction and surveys. The following table summarizes the key financial and project updates for North Bihar:
| Project Name | Status or Allocation |
|---|---|
| Muzaffarpur-Katra-Aurai-Janakpur Road | ₹229.05 Crore allocated |
| Raxaul-Kathmandu International Line | DPR submitted for NOC |
| Sitamarhi-Jayanagar-Nirmali | Project De-frozen |
| Lalitgram-Virpur Line | Project De-frozen |
| 12 New Project Surveys | ₹10.51 Crore approved |
| Suburban Network to Patna | Proposal sent to Railway Board |
Future vision for Bihar railway growth
By the year 2031, Bihar expects to have nearly 1,000 kilometers of new rail lines added to its network. The railway budget for the state has seen a massive nine-fold increase under the current administration, reaching an annual allocation of ₹10,000 crore. These projects include a mix of new lines and doubling, aimed at making North Bihar a hub for both passenger travel and freight movement. Additionally, an ultra-modern rail depot worth ₹495 crore is planned for Fatuha to support the growing fleet.