The ambitious Sahjanwa-Dohrighat rail line project in Gorakhpur has hit a technical roadblock as a high-tension power line is obstructing the currently planned alignment. Railway officials are now actively exploring alternative routes to ensure the project stays on track without compromising safety or efficiency. This infrastructure initiative remains a priority for the North Eastern Railway as it seeks to boost connectivity across the Purvanchal region.
- The 81.17-kilometer rail line project was approved by the Union Cabinet on December 17, 2019.
- A budget of ₹1320.75 crore has been allocated for the entire project.
- The first phase, a 32.95-kilometer stretch from Sahjanwa to Bansgaon, is targeted for completion by 2027.
- Land acquisition is nearly finished, with 85% of affected farmers compensated as of April 2026.
- The project includes a major bridge over the Ghaghra river and will feature 11 to 12 new stations.
Project Scope and Progress
Since its approval, the Sahjanwa-Dohrighat line has been identified as a critical link to provide an alternative route from Gorakhpur to major hubs including Varanasi, Chhapra, Prayagraj, and Lucknow. The scale of the project is massive, requiring the acquisition of over 400 hectares of land across 112 villages. To facilitate this, the Railways has already released ₹463 crore to the State Government for land acquisition purposes.
While the first phase is currently under construction, the project has navigated several challenges, including local protests regarding compensation in early 2026. Authorities successfully addressed these concerns, allowing work to resume. Despite the current delay caused by the high-tension line, the North Eastern Railway and the District Administration are working in tandem to finalize a viable path forward.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Beyond the tracks themselves, the project is an engineering feat that includes the construction of 10 large bridges, 47 small bridges, 15 underpasses, and 2 rail overbridges. The centerpiece of this project is the major railway bridge over the Ghaghra river near Barhalganj. Once fully operational by 2027, this line is expected to significantly reduce travel distances for commuters in the region and alleviate the load on existing corridors. Officials remain committed to meeting the 2027 deadline despite the ongoing adjustments to the route alignment.