Eastern Railway imposes speed limits and cancels trains as Ganga floods bridge girders in Bihar

The Eastern Railway has issued a high-level alert on September 5, 2026, after water levels in the Ganga River crossed the danger mark near critical railway bridge girders in Bihar. Passengers travelling through the region should expect major delays and service changes as safety measures are swiftly implemented across affected rail sections.

Key Details of Railway Disruptions:
- Speed restrictions of 30 kmph implemented against the normal 110-120 kmph.
- 20 to 30 kmph speed limit on the Bhagalpur-Jamalpur section between Kalyanpur and Ratanpur.
- Patna-Gaya rail section down line train operations temporarily suspended.
- 10 trains cancelled and 2 express trains diverted across Bihar.
- Bhagalpur-Azimganj-Katwa passenger train fully cancelled.
- Malda-Kiul Intercity Express short-originated from Sahibganj instead of Malda.

Safety Measures and Route Impacts

Rising waters have severely impacted vital routes including the Sahibganj-Bhagalpur-Jamalpur rail route, directly affecting stations such as Sultanganj, Kalyanpur, Bariarpur, Sabour, and Lailakh. To ensure absolute passenger safety, authorities have slashed train speeds to a maximum of 30 kilometers per hour in vulnerable zones, compared to the standard operating speed of 110-120 kilometers per hour.

East Central Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Saraswati Chandra confirmed that railway engineering teams are maintaining continuous round-the-clock surveillance. Officials are closely watching track integrity and bridge structures as floodwaters continue to pose challenges.

Wider Flood Impact Across Bihar

Heavy monsoon downpours have caused widespread flooding across 18 districts in Bihar, driven by swollen rivers including the Ganga, Kosi, Budhi Gandak, and Punpun. In Munger, the Ganga is flowing nine centimeters above the danger mark. Furthermore, persistent rain has triggered land subsidence near Farakka station, adding to infrastructure woes.

Rail users are strongly advised to check their train schedules with IRCTC or station enquiry desks before embarking on journeys through the affected zones in Bihar.