The Indian Railways plans to introduce a bullet train service between Patna and New Delhi, which will significantly cut the travel time from the current 17 hours to just 3 hours. This new service is an extension of the ongoing Delhi-Mumbai high-speed rail project. The route will span over 1050 km and connect major cities in Bihar, including Buxar, Patna, and Gaya, thus improving connectivity across central India.
The specific locations of the stations are still being decided, but potential sites for Patna's bullet train station include Bihta and Phulwari Sharif. The entire rail line will be elevated to minimise land acquisition and provide a smoother travel experience.
The benefits of this new bullet train service are numerous. The most significant is the dramatic reduction in travel time, which will significantly benefit business and leisure travellers. Business commuters will enjoy quicker travel, fostering better economic exchanges between Delhi and Patna. In addition to this, easier access will allow residents to explore each other's cultural and financial offerings, boosting tourism and trade.
From an infrastructure perspective, the project represents a significant investment and technological advancement for Indian Railways. Building and maintaining a high-speed rail network requires detailed planning and considerable resources, focusing on environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Overcoming these challenges is crucial to fully realising the benefits of bullet trains in India.
Introducing the bullet train on the Patna-New Delhi route marks a new chapter in Indian railway history. It promises convenience and the potential to reshape travel patterns, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen cultural ties across the nation.
Alongside the Patna-New Delhi bullet train, the Indian Railways are expanding the high-speed rail network with projects like the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor. The electrification of routes continues, aiming for a greener railway system. Modernisation efforts include station upgrades, enhanced passenger amenities, and advanced signalling systems. The Vande Bharat Express trains, known for their speed and comfort, are being introduced on more routes. Indian Railways also focuses on freight efficiency with dedicated freight corridors, aiming to boost logistics and trade.
(With inputs from multiple reports)