DRM Kirendra Narah of Katihar Division conducted a surprise inspection of Jogbani Railway Station to review passenger facilities and ongoing construction projects. During the visit, he expressed serious concern regarding the slow pace of the pit line construction, which is essential for starting new long-distance trains. A comprehensive master plan is now being developed to transform the station appearance and enhance capacity for more train operations near the India-Nepal border.
Master plan and infrastructure improvements at Jogbani
The railway administration is working on a new master plan to modernize Jogbani Station. This plan focuses on changing the station layout and increasing the number of platforms to accommodate more trains. DRM Narah inspected several areas including the old RPF barracks, the Shiv temple, and the running room during his visit. He emphasized that expanding the platforms is a priority to ensure better amenities for passengers. The inspection aimed to assess how facilities can be improved as the station prepares for more traffic in the coming years.
New train demands and pit line status
Local organizations and rail user groups met with the DRM to submit a memorandum of demands for improved services. The DRM assured that these requests would be evaluated based on technical feasibility and infrastructure availability. Key highlights from the discussion include:
- Pit Line Construction: A proposal has been sent to speed up the work to allow long-distance trains to originate from Jogbani.
- Train Services: Demand to make the Jogbani-Chitpur Kolkata Express a daily service and introduce MEMU trains on the Katihar-Jogbani route.
- New Connectivity: Request for two pairs of passenger trains between Jogbani and Siliguri via the Araria-Galgalia section.
- Foot Overbridge: The DRM clarified that a foot overbridge will be provided instead of a rail overbridge at the station.