Indian Railways has unveiled a series of new initiatives for Bihar. The announcement includes special trains for festive seasons, fare discounts, and infrastructure projects. These measures are expected to enhance passenger convenience and support regional connectivity.

Railways confirmed that 12,000 special trains will operate during Diwali and Chhath Puja. This large-scale arrangement will run across the country and continue for two months. The move is aimed at managing heavy festive rush and ensuring smooth travel for millions of passengers.

Alongside, Indian Railways will offer a 20 percent discount on return journeys. This discount applies to specified travel dates, providing significant relief to passengers traveling to and from Bihar.

12,000 Special Trains for Festive Travel

During Diwali and Chhath Puja, Bihar sees record passenger movement. Families travel from metropolitan cities to their native places, making trains overcrowded. To address this, Indian Railways has introduced 12,000 special trains nationwide. Bihar remains a priority due to high demand during these festivals.

The special trains will connect major routes including Gaya to Delhi, Saharsa to Amritsar, and Muzaffarpur to Hyderabad. These routes are heavily traveled during festive seasons, and the new services are expected to reduce congestion.

Discount on Return Journeys

One of the key announcements is a 20 percent discount on return tickets. This discount will be applicable for journeys between 13 October and 26 October. Additionally, it will apply for return journeys from 17 November to 1 December.

The timing ensures that passengers traveling home for Diwali and Chhath Puja can benefit both ways. It also helps those returning after the festivals, easing financial burdens during peak travel.

Amrit Bharat Trains for Bihar

Indian Railways also announced Amrit Bharat Trains for long-distance routes. New services will operate from Gaya to Delhi, Saharsa to Amritsar, and Muzaffarpur to Hyderabad.

These trains are designed to provide comfortable travel at affordable fares. Amrit Bharat trains are equipped with improved seating, modern facilities, and enhanced safety features. They are expected to become a popular choice among long-distance travelers in Bihar.

Buddha Circuit Trains for Tourism

To promote tourism, Railways will launch Buddha Circuit Trains. These trains will connect Vaishali, Hajipur, Sonpur, Patna, Fatuha, Rajgir, Natesar, Gaya, and Koderma.

The circuit is designed for domestic and international tourists interested in exploring Buddhist heritage. Bihar, being the land of Lord Buddha, attracts lakhs of visitors every year. Improved connectivity is expected to boost cultural tourism and local economy.

Vande Bharat Train from Purnea to Patna

Railways also confirmed the launch of a Vande Bharat Train from Purnea to Patna. This high-speed service will reduce travel time significantly and offer modern facilities.

The Vande Bharat trains are semi-high-speed, fully air-conditioned, and equipped with advanced passenger comfort systems. For Bihar, this addition marks a major step in modernization.

Strengthening Bihar’s Railway Infrastructure

Apart from passenger services, Indian Railways is focusing on Bihar’s infrastructure development. Major projects have been planned to enhance capacity and efficiency.

One of the key projects is the construction of a third and fourth line between Buxar and Lakhisarai. This will reduce congestion and allow smoother operations of passenger and freight trains.

Additionally, a new washing pit will be built at Laukaha for better train maintenance. This step will improve turnaround times and ensure cleaner, well-maintained trains for passengers.

Ring Railway Around Patna

Another major initiative is the creation of a ring railway around Patna. The project aims to decongest existing routes and ease pressure on the city’s central stations.

By creating a circular railway system, passenger load will be better distributed. It will also improve connectivity between suburbs and central Patna.

New Rail Links for Religious and Regional Growth

Indian Railways also announced that Sultanganj will be connected to Deoghar by a rail line. This connection is significant as both places hold immense religious importance. Sultanganj is a famous pilgrimage center, while Deoghar is home to the Baidyanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

The link will enhance religious tourism and support local businesses. Improved access will encourage more devotees to travel by train, further boosting rail revenue.

ROB and RUB Construction in Bihar

To improve safety and traffic flow, Railways will construct several ROBs (Road Over Bridges) and RUBs (Road Under Bridges) across Bihar.

These structures will reduce congestion at level crossings and improve road and rail safety. With rising vehicle traffic, these projects are crucial to minimize delays and accidents.

Significance of These Announcements

The new initiatives reflect the growing importance of Bihar in Indian Railways’ strategy. The state witnesses some of the highest passenger traffic, especially during festivals. By providing special trains, discounts, and infrastructure upgrades, Railways aims to improve travel experience and safety.

Moreover, the introduction of Buddha Circuit trains and new links supports Bihar’s tourism potential. Projects like ring railway and additional lines will also strengthen logistics and freight movement, helping the state’s economy.

Economic and Social Impact

These announcements go beyond passenger convenience. They will generate employment, boost local industries, and enhance regional trade. The new infrastructure projects will create thousands of jobs during construction and maintenance.

Tourism-related initiatives will bring more visitors, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. Improved connectivity will also help students, professionals, and daily commuters, making Bihar more integrated with national growth.

Indian Railways’ new measures for Bihar highlight a strong focus on development, connectivity, and passenger satisfaction. With 12,000 special trains, 20 percent fare discounts, Amrit Bharat trains, Buddha Circuit connectivity, and Vande Bharat introduction, Bihar is set to experience a significant transformation in rail services.

The infrastructure projects like new lines, ring railway, Sultanganj-Deoghar link, and ROB-RUB construction will ensure long-term growth. These initiatives prove that Indian Railways is not only addressing immediate festive rush but also investing in Bihar’s future as a key hub for travel, trade, and tourism.