Indian Railways has launched a new overnight special train service, 03215/03216, to improve connectivity between Patliputra and Purnia Court. This service, which commenced operations in mid-August 2026, is currently running five days a week and is scheduled to operate until September 16. Railway officials have indicated that the decision to make this service permanent will depend on passenger demand and feedback collected during this trial period.
Key highlights of the new service include:
- Train Numbers: 03215/03216
- Operational Frequency: Five days a week
- Trial Period: Mid-August 2026 until September 16, 2026
- Key Route Coverage: Patliputra, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Khagaria, Saharsa, Madhepura, and Purnia Court
Strategic Connectivity for Bihar
This new route is strategically designed to serve the Seemanchal region, providing a vital link for passengers traveling between the capital region and North-Eastern Bihar. The train is specifically timed to assist those traveling for education and commerce. The service departs from Patliputra at 11:00 PM and arrives at Purnia Court at 8:30 AM the following morning. For the return journey, the train departs Purnia Court at 9:10 AM and reaches Patliputra by 5:45 PM.
Political and Public Support
The introduction of this train follows significant advocacy efforts. Samastipur MP Shambhavi Chaudhary played a key role in bringing this demand to the national stage, having raised the issue in the Lok Sabha and held consultations with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The move has been widely appreciated by local organizations, including the North-Eastern Bihar Rail Consumer Struggle Committee, who noted that this service is a major step toward enhancing the regional transport infrastructure.
As the trial period progresses, regular commuters are encouraged to utilize this service, as passenger occupancy data will be the primary factor in determining if the route becomes a permanent fixture in the Indian Railways timetable.