- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:27 AM (IST)
- Source:Jagran News Network
The Ministry of Railways has cleared the construction of a new 25.10 km railway line between Nawada and Pawapuri at an estimated cost of Rs 492.14 crore, aimed at boosting connectivity and development in Bihar’s Nawada and Nalanda districts.
According to East Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Saraswati Chandra, the project is designed to promote religious tourism, trade, and socio-economic growth in the region. The new line will provide direct rail access to the Jain pilgrimage site of Pawapuri, easing dependence on road travel. It will also improve connectivity between Parasnath, Rajgir, Biharsharif, and the famous Jal Mandir, while reducing travel time across the Nawada-Nalanda-Rajgir stretch.
The link is expected to enhance access to Nalanda University and Bodh Gaya (via the Rajgir-Gaya route) and strengthen trade ties between Nawada, Nalanda, the proposed industrial hub, and the traditional silk centre of Kadirganj with Bhagalpur. The project is also expected to generate employment during its construction phase.
In a separate development, the Ministry of Railways has approved the Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) for 2024-25. A total of Rs 244 crore was disbursed to 13,761 non-gazetted employees of the DDU division. The bonus, calculated on 78 days, provided each eligible employee with an average of Rs 17,951, with a monthly cap of Rs 7,000.
Officials said the payment, released to employees’ accounts within 24 hours of approval, acknowledges their efficiency and dedication while supporting their financial stability ahead of the festive season. The initiative is being hailed as a motivational step within the railway system.