The East Central Railway has announced major disruptions to train operations on the Patna-Gaya rail section following a significant increase in water levels at Bridge Number-21. As of September 4, 2026, at 8:10 PM, authorities suspended train movement on the down line, situated between Punpun and Parsa Bazar stations at kilometer 11/38-32, due to the Punpun River threatening the bridge's girders. To ensure passenger safety, the Railway Engineering Department and the Danapur Rail Mandal have implemented several service changes effective September 5 through September 7, 2026.
Ten MEMU trains operating between Patna and Gaya were cancelled on
September 6, 2026. Furthermore,
Train No. 18625 (Purnia Court–Hatia Express) and Train No. 18626 (Hatia–Purnia Court Express) were diverted via the Bakhtiyarpur – Rajgir – Tilaiya – Purnea – Banmankhi route. Other services, including the Dhanbad-Patna Express and the Banaras-Rajgir Express, have also been subjected to route modifications.
Railway officials are maintaining continuous surveillance of the bridge and surrounding tracks. Services will remain suspended until water levels recede and the infrastructure is cleared for safe transit. Passengers are urged to consult the National Train Enquiry System or contact the Rail Madad helpline at
139 for real-time updates regarding their scheduled departures.
