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Boosting Connectivity in Bhagalpur has become imperative following the collapse of the Vikramshila Setu, which left numerous commuters stranded and in urgent need of travel solutions. In response to this logistics emergency, the Indian railway administration has rolled out a special train service comprising 15 unreserved coaches. This new train service will operate between Bhagalpur and Katihar, making stops at key points such as Naugachia, thus re-establishing a crucial connection across the Ganga River. The daily special train service is set to run from May 23 through June 1, providing much-needed transport options while repairs on the compromised bridge are planned.
The closure of typical transportation channels across the river has significantly impacted a broad spectrum of the local populace, which includes office workers, daily wage earners, traders, and farmers who all depend on this vital route. The disruption began on May 4, when a 33-meter reinforced concrete slab from the bridge collapsed, severing an essential highway link between south Bihar and the Kosi-Seemanchal region. This vital corridor is responsible for facilitating trade and movement across 16 districts, making the railway’s intervention essential to prevent economic stagnation and support local livelihoods.
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As stated by Rasaraj Maji from the Malda railway division, the emergency rail service was officially launched on May 23. The train, designated as 03407 Bhagalpur-Katihar special, is now part of the regional railway schedule, ensuring immediate relief to those affected. This special service will maintain its daily operations throughout the allocated period, concluding at the start of June.
The service operates with careful planning, departing from Bhagalpur at 7:00 AM and making key stops in Munger, Khagaria, and Naugachia, arriving in Katihar by 1:00 PM. For the return journey, the train number 03408 will leave Katihar at 2:10 PM and reach back in Bhagalpur by 8:20 PM. This schedule is designed to facilitate the daily commute of local workers, allowing them to attend to business obligations during daylight hours.
The choice to operate the train as an unreserved service underscores the commitment to community welfare, as highlighted by railway officials. This format removes advance booking requirements, allowing immediate access to transportation for those with urgent travel needs, particularly benefiting economically disadvantaged travelers. The service aims to help various segments of the society, especially salaried workers, small-business owners, and laborers whose daily income depends on the ability to cross the river.
Moreover, the service is also crucial for local agricultural stakeholders. The disruption of road networks threatens supply chains for perishable goods, including vegetables, milk, and the region’s renowned bananas. Timely access to markets is vital for these products, and the railway service acts as an essential stabilizer for local agriculture, helping prevent spoilage and associated losses for farmers.
While the emergency rail service alleviates some public mobility challenges, there are ongoing efforts to restore the damaged road infrastructure. Following strategic discussions involving Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Border Roads Organisation has initiated repairs on the collapsed section of the highway bridge, focusing on the establishment of a temporary tactical bridge.
Work commenced on May 16, with teams working on deploying a Bailey bridge over the damaged area. These rapidly deployable modular structures are especially suited for emergencies, allowing engineers to create load-bearing passages over compromised sections efficiently. It is projected that the installation will allow light vehicles to cross the river by the first week of June, providing further relief for commuters and gradually decreasing reliance on the special train service.
The incident highlights the susceptibility of regional economies to sudden transportation disruptions. The Kosi-Seemanchal area, a significant trade hub, has faced significant challenges due to this severance from south Bihar. The reliance on alternative rail routes emphasizes the necessity for diverse transportation methods in geographically challenging regions with major rivers.
Before the special train service was established, locals were anxious, as conventional routes involved extended detours that added time and costs to daily travels. With the introduction of a consistent, daily unreserved rail option, pressure has significantly eased on alternative transport operators who experienced increased demand during the crisis. The collaborative efforts of national rail authorities, state leaders, and infrastructure bodies demonstrate a concerted strategy to manage public transport crises following unforeseen civil engineering mishaps.
Source: The post Daily Special Train Dispatched To Assist Thousands Of Commuters Stranded After Bihar Bridge Failure in India first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
