South Eastern Railway has announced a major track maintenance project in the Chakradharpur rail division between Kansbahal and Dharuadihi stations. This work will lead to the cancellation and diversion of 18 long-distance express trains from July 2, 2026, to November 17, 2026. The railway authorities will implement mega blocks every Tuesday on the up line and every Friday on the down line for about 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Which trains are cancelled and how is the service affected?
The Raxaul-Hyderabad Express (Train No. 17005/17006) will be completely cancelled in both directions throughout the maintenance period. Additionally, the South Bihar Express will face changes in its operation. Train No. 13288 (Ara-Durg) will be short-terminated at Rourkela on Tuesdays, while Train No. 13287 (Durg-Ara) will start from Rourkela on Fridays. On Mondays, the Ara-Durg Express will run via Kandra, Sini, and Chakradharpur, bypassing the Sini-Tatanagar section.
Detailed schedule of Raxaul-Hyderabad Express cancellations
| Train Number | Route | Cancellation Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 17005 | Hyderabad to Raxaul | July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Aug 6, 13, 20, 27; Sept 3, 10, 17, 24; Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov 5, 12 |
| 17006 | Raxaul to Hyderabad | July 5, 12, 19, 26; Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Sept 6, 13, 20, 27; Oct 4, 11, 18, 25; Nov 1, 8, 15 |
What advice has the railway given to passengers?
Officials stated that this maintenance is necessary to ensure safer rail services and improve operational capacity. Since these disruptions occur during the festive season of Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath, passengers are expected to face significant inconvenience. The railway has advised all passengers to check their train status on the IRCTC website or via NTES and the 139 enquiry service before starting their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are the trains cancelled between July and November 2026?
South Eastern Railway is conducting large-scale track maintenance between Kansbahal and Dharuadihi stations in the Chakradharpur division to improve safety and capacity.
How will the South Bihar Express be affected?
Train 13288 will be short-terminated at Rourkela on Tuesdays, and Train 13287 will originate from Rourkela on Fridays. On Mondays, it will bypass the Sini-Tatanagar section.
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