Ganga Erosion Hits Sahibganj Tracks: Major Train Disruptions
The relentless erosion caused by the Ganga River has created a critical situation for the Eastern Railway's Malda division. In Jharkhand's Sahibganj district, the river's power has begun to threaten the stability of vital railway tracks, forcing authorities to overhaul train schedules and implement emergency safety measures to prevent a disaster.
The Crisis Near Jhunjhri Bridge
The situation escalated significantly on the afternoon of Tuesday, September 29, 2026, near the Jhunjhri bridge, situated between the Maharajpur and Sakrigali stations. Reports indicate that soil subsidence affected approximately 100 meters of the track area. By Wednesday, September 30, the crisis intensified as river water encroached dangerously close to the rail line, moving within 13 to 30 meters of the tracks.
Maharajpur Station Manager Amarjit Kumar confirmed that the soil began subsiding on Tuesday afternoon, prompting immediate concern among railway officials regarding the structural integrity of the line.
Impact on Train Services and Cancellations
The geological instability has forced Eastern Railway to implement strict operational changes. According to CPRO Shibram Majhi, operations on the down line of the Barharwa-Sahibganj section have been completely suspended. While the up line remains operational, trains are currently forced to move under heavy speed restrictions to ensure passenger safety.
Several key services have been cancelled for September 30, 2026, including:
- Sahibganj-Rampurhat Down Passenger (63406/63074)
- 63073 Rampurhat-Sahibganj MEMU
- 13428 Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express
- 63401 Sahibganj-Malda Town MEMU
Diversions and Short-Terminations
To mitigate the impact on commuters, the railway has rerouted several long-distance services. The Bhagalpur-Ranchi Vananchal Express, along with five other express trains, is being diverted via Dumka. Other services are being rerouted through the