Ganga Erosion Hits Sahibganj-Maharajpur Line; Trains Cancelled

The rising water levels of the Ganga river have triggered severe soil erosion, causing significant disruptions to railway services on the Sahibganj-Maharajpur section. The erosion has compromised the structural integrity of the tracks near the Maharajpur Jhunjhri bridge, located within the Malda Division of the Eastern Railway.
Track Damage and Service Suspension
As of late September 2026, approximately 100 meters of the rail track near pole number 219/32 in the Sahibganj-Barharwa section has been heavily impacted by the river's force. Eastern Railway CPRO Shivraj Manjhi confirmed that the down line has been completely suspended for both passenger and freight movements to ensure safety.
While the up line remains operational, it is currently under strict speed restrictions. This precaution is necessary as the river water has encroached within 13 meters of the track area.
Emergency Mitigation Efforts Underway
Railway authorities have mobilized emergency response teams to stabilize the area on a war-footing. To