A formal proposal has been submitted to introduce a new bi-weekly train connecting Ranchi directly with Haridwar and Rishikesh to ease travel for pilgrims and patients. On August 23 2026 Arun Joshi ZRUCC member formally submitted the request to the General Manager of South Eastern Railway. The initiative aims to bridge a major connectivity gap by linking important religious and cultural centers directly. Key highlights of the proposed train service include:
- Direct bi-weekly service connecting Ranchi to Haridwar and Rishikesh.
- Route passing through Lohardaga Tori Daltonganj Dehri-on-Sone Varanasi Ayodhyadham and Bareilly.
- Crucial benefits for pilgrims travelers and patients heading toward major northern hubs.
Background and Route Details
The proposed route for the train is set to pass through Lohardaga Tori Daltonganj Dehri-on-Sone Varanasi Ayodhyadham and Bareilly. Currently there is no direct rail service from Ranchi to these destinations. Passengers are often forced to endure the inconvenience of switching trains at other stations along the way. The primary objective of this service is to provide direct rail connectivity from Ranchi to key religious cultural and administrative hubs including Ayodhyadham Lucknow Bareilly Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Strong Local and Political Advocacy
Advocacy for this route has been ongoing for several years with backing from prominent leaders. Ranchi Rail Division’s Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee DRUCC discussed the need for such services during their meeting in June 2026. Furthermore Member of Parliament Sanjay Seth previously championed the necessity of direct rail services between Ranchi Haridwar and Rishikesh in July 2022 and July 2025. Additionally Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar wrote to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in February 2026 formally requesting the initiation of a train service on this route via Ayodhyadham and Bareilly. The proposed bi-weekly service is expected to significantly benefit pilgrims traveling to Ayodhyadham patients seeking medical care in Lucknow and general travelers heading toward Haridwar and Rishikesh once approved by the Railway Board.