The physical work of laying concrete sleepers for new railway tracks has officially commenced near Gumti Number One in Bhagalpur. This development comes after a period of stagnation caused by local protests regarding the design of the proposed underpass. With the intervention of Godda MP Dr. Nishikant Dubey and Eastern Railway officials, a resolution has been found, allowing the important yard expansion project to move forward.
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Changes in Underpass Design and Cost
Previously, local residents had stopped the construction work because the planned underpass at Gumti Number One was too small. The original design was only 2.5 meters high and 2.5 meters wide, which would not accommodate larger vehicles. To address these concerns, a revised drawing has been sent to the Malda Division for final approval.
The new design proposes an underpass with a height of 4.2 meters and a width of 6 meters. This increased size will allow ambulances, fire tenders, and cars to pass without difficulty. Due to these design changes, the estimated budget for the revised underpass has increased to approximately ₹13.34 crore.
Benefits of the New Shunting Line
The primary goal of this project is to lay 600 to 800 meters of double or triple track extending from Gumti Number One to Gumti Number Three. This section will function as a shunting neck, used to park train rakes of up to 22 coaches after they are washed.
This expansion is critical for Bhagalpur Junction. Currently, the main yard and platforms face heavy congestion. By moving parked trains to this new line, the main platforms will be free for incoming and outgoing trains. The overall project also includes an underpass at Gumti Number 2 and a Rail Overbridge (ROB) at Gumti Number 3.