Train operations on the Patna-Gaya rail section remain significantly disrupted as of September 8, 2026, due to rising water levels in the Punpun River affecting railway bridge number 21 located between Punpun and Parsa Bazar. Passengers travelling on this key route are advised to check updated train schedules before starting their journey as heavy waterlogging has forced authorities to cancel multiple services and divert others through alternative routes. The crisis began on the night of September 4, 2026, at approximately 10:00 PM, when the East Central Railway suspended operations on the down line to ensure passenger safety. Over the past three days, a total of 25 trains have been cancelled, severely impacting daily commuters traveling to Jahanabad, Gaya, Nawada, and Aurangabad.
As of September 8, 2026, officials confirmed the
cancellation of 10 MEMU trains operating between Patna and Gaya. An additional 10 trains have been diverted via alternative routes, including Barkakana, Karaundi, Rajgir, and Tilaiya. Notable diversions include the
18625 Purnia Court-Hatia Express, the
18626 Hatia-Purnia Court Express, and the
13329/13330 Dhanbad-Patna-Dhanbad Express. Railway authorities are closely coordinating to manage passenger inconvenience during this unexpected weather disruption.
Engineering department officials report that the water level at bridge number 21 has reached near the danger mark. While the newer bridge is currently touched by water, the older, higher-elevation bridge remains unaffected, allowing for limited, slow-speed single-line operations for both up and down traffic. Local residents have noted that the current flooding in the Punpun River is more severe than the 2019 levels, with approximately half of the Punpun Bazar area currently submerged. Railway authorities have stated that the
suspension on the down line will remain in effect until the safety situation is deemed satisfactory. The engineering department continues to monitor water levels closely and will provide further updates regarding the resumption of normal operations.
