Ratanpura Relief: Rs 7.38 Cr Subway Tender Awarded!
The Varanasi Division of the North Eastern Railway has officially taken a massive step toward resolving a long-standing connectivity crisis. A construction contract valued at Rs 7.38 crore has been awarded to Viraj Construction Deoria Private Limited for the development of a Limited Height Subway (LHSW) at Ratanpura station.
Ending the 3km Detour
For years, commuters in the Indara-Phephna section have faced significant hardships due to a severed connection. In 2020, Railway Gate number 23 (LC No. 23, Km 34/1-2) was closed to facilitate the expansion of platform number two at Ratanpura station. While the station's capacity improved, the local community was left struggling.
The closure of this gate cut off a direct 50-meter route that residents used to reach the Ratanpura market and local block headquarters. Instead of a quick crossing, commuters were forced to take a massive detour, traveling an additional three kilometers for every trip. This persistent inconvenience led to widespread public demands and organized protests, with citizens calling for an underpass to restore their mobility.
Project Details and Timeline
The new infrastructure project, identified under tender reference NER-BSB-2026-111, will feature a subway with a height of 2.75 meters. The project follows a site inspection conducted by Gati Shakti implementing agency engineers in June 2024.
The administrative process for this vital project has reached a major milestone:
- Tender Opening: August 13, 2026
- Bid Submission Conclusion: September 8, 2026
- Letter of Acceptance Issued: September 25
Impact on Local Communities
Once completed, the subway will provide much-needed relief to more than 30 villages that have been disconnected since