Ashwini Vaishnaw Inspects Varanasi's Mega Namo Bridge
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspects the Namo Bridge in Varanasi, a double-decker structure set to boost rail and road connectivity by 2029.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has conducted an on-site inspection of the Namo Bridge in Varanasi, a massive double-decker hybrid structure currently under construction. This landmark project is designed to strengthen both rail and road connectivity for the next 100 years.
A Double-Decker Engineering Marvel
The Namo Bridge is being built as a sophisticated hybrid structure to serve dual purposes. The upper deck will feature a six-lane highway, while the lower deck is designed to accommodate four railway tracks. This design aims to significantly enhance the movement of both vehicular traffic and trains in the region.
The bridge, which spans approximately 2.5 kilometers, is being constructed parallel to the 139-year-old Malviya Bridge. It will connect Namo Ghat to the Padav area located near the Kashi Railway Station. With an estimated cost ranging between ₹2,642 crore and ₹2,657 crore, the project is scheduled for completion in 2029.
Transforming Rail Capacity and Connectivity
Once operational, the new rail infrastructure is expected to be a game-changer for the region's transport network. The project will provide:
- Increased Train Frequency: The new tracks are projected to create capacity for more than 100 additional trains every day.
- Regional Links: It will provide essential connectivity to North and Northeast India, including vital links to Bihar and West Bengal.
- Station Modernization: The bridge is a core component of the Kashi Railway Station redevelopment, which aims to accommodate over 50,000 passengers.
Vande Bharat Sleeper and High-Speed Future
During his visit to Varanasi on October 31, 2026, alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Minister Vaishnaw also flagged off a new Vande Bharat Sleeper train service. This new service will connect Varanasi and New Delhi, offering a premium travel option for commuters.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister has approved the Northern Bullet Train Corridor. This high-speed project will incorporate Varanasi, promising to drastically reduce travel durations between Varanasi and major hubs like Delhi, Lucknow, and Patna.