A new era of Bihar’s rail connectivity is set to kickstart with the inauguration of a Vande Bharat Express between Patna and Gorakhpur. The train is expected to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his planned rally at Siwan on June 20. This new semi-high-speed train will be Bihar’s third Vande Bharat train, along with the currently operating routes from Patna to Ranchi and Howrah.
Improved Connectivity Through North Bihar
The 16-coach Vande Bharat Express will traverse important North Bihar areas before entering the state of Uttar Pradesh. The train will run through Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, and Narkatiaganj, establishing a fast and effective rail corridor between Patna and Gorakhpur.
The corridor has been selected strategically to serve a high-density population in central and northern Bihar. It is likely to be the fastest train service on this route, providing much-needed relief to passengers who had few direct rail choices before.
Timings and Frequency Likely to Benefit Daily Commuters
According to tentative plans, the train will leave Patna-Gorakhpur Gorakhpur at 6 am, reach Patna by 11 am, and return by 3 pm, arriving back in Gorakhpur by around 8 to 9 pm. The 400 km journey is expected to take nearly five hours, significantly reducing travel time for passengers. The train will operate six days a week, providing regular and predictable service to thousands of weekday and weekend passengers between the two cities and towns in between.
Maintenance Base at Gorakhpur, Launch Preparations Underway
Readiness at both Patna Junction and Gorakhpur Junction is underway. Work on the maintenance of the train will be done at Gorakhpur to make sure that the service is efficient and reliable. Station upgrades, crew realignment, and security screening are being performed in preparation for the planned launch date.
The railway officials said that the proposal for inauguration of the service had been prepared during the previous visits of the Prime Minister but was delayed over pending Railway Board approvals. Political value being accorded to this inaugural is also being observed, particularly with Bihar in the limelight.
A Big Step in Eastern India’s Rail Upgrade
Once it begins operations, this new Vande Bharat between Patna and Gorakhpur will be a crucial connector in India’s growing network of semi-high-speed trains. It is yet another step by the Centre to enhance infrastructure in eastern India, particularly Bihar.
The new service will not only enhance inter-state connectivity but also benefit thousands from the neighboring areas such as Hajipur and Champaran. With increasing demand and few options available, this Vande Bharat expansion is likely to be popular with the masses and change travel trends in this region.
