Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Son Nagar–Mohammad Ganj Third Rail Line, launched an automatic signalling system between Sasaram–Anugraha Narayan Road, and laid the foundation stone for five new platforms at Harding Park, Patna. These significant railway projects aim to accelerate connectivity, improve operations, and better passenger facilities in Bihar.
Introduction:
Marking a pivotal move towards enhancing railway infrastructure in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for critical railway projects that promise to transform connectivity, freight handling, and passenger experience in the state. The development package includes the inauguration of the Third Rail Line between Son Nagar and Mohammad Ganj, the Automatic Signalling System between Sasaram and Anugraha Narayan Road, and the foundation laying of five terminal platforms at Harding Park, Patna.
These projects, collectively worth over Rs. 1,468 crore, are aligned with the Government of India’s commitment to modernizing railway networks, increasing operational capacity, and strengthening regional connectivity.
Inauguration of the Third Rail Line: Son Nagar – Mohammad Ganj:
- Sanctioned Cost: Rs. 1,338 Crores
- Line Length: 65 Kilometers
- Districts Covered: Aurangabad (Bihar) & Palamu (Jharkhand)
This newly inaugurated third rail line aims to decongest the busy Grand Chord route and improve coal evacuation from Jharkhand to power plants in Bihar, such as Ankorha and Nabinagar. The strategic stretch from Son Nagar to Mohammad Ganj enhances capacity for both freight and passenger movement.
Key Benefits:
- Seamless connectivity up to Barun Bishnupur station
- Efficient coal transport to thermal power stations
- Greater operational efficiency and punctuality
- Enhanced safety standards due to new infrastructure
- Acceleration of industrial and economic activities in the region
This rail line is particularly crucial for logistics and freight movement, acting as a vital link for industries and power utilities, thereby supporting the larger national goal of infrastructure-led growth.
Automatic Signalling System – Sasaram – Anugraha Narayan Road:
- Sanctioned Cost: Rs. 43 Crores
- Line Length: 25 Kilometers
- Districts Covered: Sasaram and Aurangabad
The Prime Minister also inaugurated an Automatic Signalling System on the Sasaram–Anugraha Narayan Road section. This modern signalling upgrade is expected to dramatically improve train operation efficiency and safety.
Key Benefits:
- Increased line capacity enabling more trains to operate
- Supports higher speeds of up to 160 km/h
- Enhances train movement accuracy and scheduling
- Reduces human dependency in operations, lowering errors and delays
With this upgrade, the section is now equipped to handle growing passenger and freight demand, while simultaneously laying the foundation for high-speed rail traffic in the future.
Foundation Stone Laid for 5 Terminal Platforms at Harding Park, Patna:
- Sanctioned Cost: Rs. 95 Crores
- Total Length: 2.273 Kilometers
- District: Patna
A significant leap forward in urban passenger handling was marked by laying the foundation stone of five new terminal platforms at Harding Park in Patna. These platforms are set to act as a major extension to Patna Junction, easing congestion and enhancing commuter convenience.
Key Benefits:
- Addition of 5 platforms will significantly increase handling capacity
- High-quality passenger amenities for better travel experience
- Improved operational flexibility for railways at a high-density urban hub
- Better train scheduling and reduction in delays at Patna Junction
The terminal project at Harding Park will serve as a future-ready addition to one of Bihar’s busiest railway nodes and support the city’s growing passenger load.
Wider Impact and Vision:
These three projects reflect the central government’s vision of “Infrastructure for All” and reinforce Bihar’s growing importance in India’s railway map. From freight efficiency and industrial development to enhanced passenger comfort, each initiative has a multi-dimensional impact.
- The third rail line is a game-changer for coal and goods movement in the eastern corridor.
- The automatic signalling system enables speed, safety, and scalability on one of Bihar’s important routes.
- The new platforms in Patna cater to urban mobility needs, positioning the city for future growth.
These efforts contribute not only to Bihar’s development but also to the national railway modernization mission under the PM Gati Shakti initiative.
Conclusion:
The launch of these three vital railway projects marks a new era in Bihar’s connectivity and infrastructure landscape. By strengthening freight corridors, introducing cutting-edge signalling, and expanding terminal capacity, Indian Railways is paving the way for a more efficient, passenger-friendly, and economically empowered future in the region.
Source: MoR | Image Credit (representational): Southern Railway
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