- By Priyanka Koul
- Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:20 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Vande Bharat Express In Bihar: The Indian Railways is planning to expand the Vande Bharat Express network in Bihar, and Muzaffarpur could soon see not one but four new high-speed trains. To assess the practicality of this expansion, the Railway Board has requested a feasibility report before finalizing the routes and operations.
The Vande Bharat Express, India’s fastest semi-high-speed train, is set to increase its presence in Bihar. The railway authorities are considering adding more trains to the state’s network, and Muzaffarpur is a key focus. If approved, four new Vande Bharat trains could operate from the city. To determine the feasibility of this plan, the East Central Railway (ECR) has instructed the Sonpur division to conduct a study and prepare a detailed report as per a report by Live Hindustan.
Railway officials at Muzaffarpur Junction have been tasked with gathering data. Over the next 15 days, teams from the commercial and operating departments will analyze passenger demand, infrastructure, and operational factors. The report will then be submitted to the headquarters for review.
Proposed Routes for New Vande Bharat Trains
According to sources, the Sonpur division has submitted a proposal to the Railway Board for Vande Bharat services on the following routes from Muzaffarpur:
- Muzaffarpur to New Delhi
- Muzaffarpur to New Jalpaiguri
- Muzaffarpur to Howrah
- Muzaffarpur to Varanasi
The Railway Board is now accelerating the evaluation process. Before launching the new services, authorities want to ensure the viability of these routes.
Why the Feasibility Report?
A feasibility report is a critical step in determining whether a proposed project is practical and beneficial. It examines various factors, including:
- Technical Feasibility – Assessing infrastructure and railway capacity.
- Economic Viability – Analyzing costs, revenue potential, and affordability.
- Operational Impact – Evaluating how new services might affect existing train schedules.
- Passenger Demand – Understanding the need for Vande Bharat trains on specific routes.
This study will help ensure that the expansion of Vande Bharat services is well-planned and beneficial for passengers.
Passenger Feedback to Be Collected
As part of the feasibility study, railway officials will also seek input from passengers at Muzaffarpur Junction. They will analyze booking data from the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and gather feedback from travelers at the station. The goal is to determine if there is a strong demand for Vande Bharat trains and which destinations have the highest need.
The study will be conducted confidentially to ensure unbiased results. Additionally, officials will assess whether the introduction of these high-speed trains will impact existing rail services.
Once the feasibility report is completed and submitted, the Railway Board will review the findings and decide on the final routes and schedules. If approved, Muzaffarpur could soon become a major hub for Vande Bharat Express services, enhancing connectivity and providing passengers with faster travel options.