Residents Launch Hunger Strike Demanding Railway Flyover in Vaishali
Locals in the Vaishali district have started an indefinite protest to demand crucial infrastructure and passenger amenities. Here is a quick look at the core demands and background of the agitation.
- Indefinite hunger strike began on September 18, 2026, at Krishna Chowk in Desri.
- Protesters are demanding a Road Overbridge (ROB) at railway gate number 37-A.
- Additional demands include stoppage of key express trains at Desri station and better local passenger facilities.
- The agitation is led by Congress District President Ranjit Pandit.
Long-Standing Demand for Infrastructure
The construction of an ROB at railway gate 37-A has been a persistent demand for thousands of daily commuters traveling between Desri Bazar, Bidupur, and Sahdei Buzurg. Although the Hajipur-Bachwara rail line doubling project and related road widening works have been completed, the absence of an ROB or a proper underpass causes severe, daily traffic congestion at the crossing.
Official Follow-Ups and Prior Protests
Public frustration has mounted over the slow pace of execution despite administrative engagement. On November 29, 2025, Union Minister Chirag Paswan wrote a formal letter to the Railway Minister regarding the bridge. Following this, the Minister's Additional Private Secretary directed the Vaishali District Magistrate to initiate necessary actions. Earlier, on August 10, 2026, the Desri Block Parivartan Sangharsh Morcha had also staged a public demonstration highlighting the urgency of this project. While the Railways' GSU has previously been involved in consultancy and JFR preparation, citizens continue their agitation to compel authorities for visible ground-level progress.