New Delhi: To tackle the massive rush of passengers traveling to Bihar during Diwali and Chhath festivals, the Indian Railways has made special arrangements. On Tuesday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that over 12,000 special train services will be operated across the country towards Bihar in the next two months. These additional services are expected to provide huge relief to lakhs of passengers.
During the announcement at Rail Bhavan, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, JD(U) working president and MP Sanjay Jha, and MP Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal were also present. The Railway Minister further revealed that for the first time, a “Return Journey Discount Scheme” is being introduced on a trial basis.
Discount Offer on Return Tickets
Under this scheme, passengers traveling between October 13 and October 26 for onward journeys and returning between November 17 and December 1 will get up to 20% discount on return tickets. This is expected to benefit migrant workers and families returning home during the festive season.
New Trains and Projects Announced
Along with the festive specials, the Railway Minister also announced several new trains and infrastructure projects for Bihar. Four new Amrit Bharat Express trains will be launched:
- Gaya–Delhi
- Saharsa–Amritsar
- Chhapra–Delhi
- Muzaffarpur–Hyderabad
To boost religious tourism, a Buddha Circuit Train will be introduced, connecting key Buddhist sites such as Vaishali, Hajipur, Sonpur, Patna, Rajgir, Nalanda, Gaya, and Koderma.
Additionally, the Purnia–Patna Vande Bharat Express will be started to enhance connectivity between Seemanchal region and the state capital.
Major Infrastructure Boost
Several key infrastructure projects were also unveiled:
- Third and fourth lines on the Buxar–Lakhisarai section for smoother train operations.
- A ring railway around Patna.
- A new rail line from Sultanganj to Deoghar.
- A new washing pit at Laukaha.
- Construction of multiple road overbridges and underpasses across Bihar.
A new train from Patna to Ayodhya will also be introduced to facilitate religious tourism.
Leaders Call it a Historic Moment
Bihar leaders present at the event hailed the announcements as historic, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. They said these projects will not only make travel easier for Bihar residents but also give a strong push to trade, tourism, and religious activities.
Railways assured that this festive season, passengers will be able to travel in a safer and more comfortable manner, without the usual crowding and inconvenience.
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