KKN Gurugram Desk | In a significant development for the railway infrastructure in Bihar, the government has approved a fund of ₹130 crore for the doubling of the railway tracks between Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur. This 255.5-kilometer long railway line, which connects key regions in Bihar, is poised to significantly improve rail connectivity, cut down travel times, and reduce delays for passengers. The project, initially approved in 2020, is now one step closer to execution with the approval of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and the release of the necessary funds by the Railway Board.

Doubling of Railway Tracks: A Game-Changer for Bihar’s Rail Network

The approval of the ₹130 crore funding is a significant boost for the long-pending railway project. The doubling of the tracks is part of an ambitious initiative to enhance the rail network in the region, which will lead to faster and more efficient rail services. This project includes the Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur sections, which span a total of 255.5 kilometers.

The Railway Board had originally approved the project back in 2020, and after nearly four years, two months, and 14 days, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) was sent for final approval earlier this year. Following some delays, the Railway Board has now granted the final approval and released the necessary funds, ensuring that the project will proceed without further hindrances.

Fast-Tracking the Project: Completion Expected by 2029

According to railway sources, the doubling of the railway tracks from Narpatiyaganj to Darbhanga, passing through Sitamarhi, and from Sitamarhi to Muzaffarpur is expected to begin at full scale starting from November-December 2025. The completion of the project is targeted for 2029, marking a crucial milestone in the region’s railway development.

This doubling of tracks will help in enhancing the capacity of the Eastern Railway, improving services for passengers and easing the growing demand for transportation. The upgrade will reduce delays and increase the overall efficiency of the services on these routes, benefiting both local and long-distance travelers.

What This Project Means for the Region: Enhanced Connectivity and Reduced Travel Time

The doubling of the railway tracks on the Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur routes will lead to multiple benefits for passengers. Once the project is completed, travelers will experience fewer delays, and trains will be able to run more efficiently on the route. This will make it easier for passengers to travel long distances in less time, saving both time and energy.

Moreover, with the construction of 301 bridges and 176 level crossings as part of the project, including 100 major bridges, the improved infrastructure will lead to safer and more reliable railway services. The project will also contribute to the overall economic development of the region by improving connectivity and facilitating faster transportation of goods and services across Bihar.

A Long-Awaited Project: How the Proposal Got the Green Light

This project had been in the pipeline for several years. In the 2019-2020 budget session, the Indian Railway Board had given approval for the doubling of the railway lines in the Indian territories bordering Nepal, including the critical Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur and Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga sections. The Railway Board had issued a letter on January 16, 2020, sanctioning the final survey for the project.

After extensive surveys and administrative work, the final location survey for the project was approved, and the project officially gained traction. Tendering for the project was completed with an estimated value of over ₹4000 crore, signaling the project’s readiness for execution.

Support from Local Leaders: Focus on Development and Connectivity

Devesh Chandra Thakur, the Member of Parliament from Sitamarhi, played an instrumental role in pushing for the timely execution of the railway doubling project. Understanding the region’s pressing need for improved infrastructure, he approached Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and urged for the doubling of the railway line between Narpatiyaganj and Muzaffarpur. His efforts were instrumental in bringing the project back to life after it had been in limbo for several years.

According to Devesh Chandra Thakur, the proposal for this project was previously delayed, but after submitting the DPR to the Railway Board four months ago, it received the necessary approvals quickly, setting the stage for the project’s commencement.

Expected Impact on Regional Development

Once completed, the doubling of the railway tracks between Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur will likely lead to:

• Improved Passenger Comfort: Passengers will no longer have to face long waiting times, as more trains will be able to run on these busy tracks.

• Economic Growth: Better connectivity will promote economic development in the region, helping local businesses and industries by providing more efficient transportation.

• Safer Travel: The addition of new bridges and level crossings will make train travel safer for everyone.

• Reduced Travel Time: With more trains running on the double tracks, travelers will experience faster journeys to key destinations.

Infrastructure Development: A Step Toward Modernization

The project aligns with India’s broader goals of modernizing railway infrastructure and improving passenger services across the country. With the implementation of high-speed trains and better connectivity between important cities in Bihar, this railway line doubling project will play a crucial role in transforming the region’s rail infrastructure.

With Bihar being an important state in India’s economic and transportation network, improving railway connectivity is a priority for the government. The doubling of these tracks is expected to contribute significantly to regional connectivity while reducing congestion and delays.

The Narkatiyaganj-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur railway track doubling project is a major step toward enhancing rail infrastructure in Bihar. The ₹130 crore fund approval and the finalization of the Detailed Project Report mark a crucial development in improving passenger services and regional connectivity.

Once the project is completed by 2029, it will bring significant benefits to the residents of Bihar, as well as passengers traveling across the region. The successful implementation of this project will not only enhance the efficiency and speed of rail services but will also contribute to economic development and regional growth in Bihar.