Ashwini Vaishnaw begins two-day Bihar visit to launch major rail projects in Jamalpur

IANS May 23, 2025 431 views

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has commenced a critical two-day visit to Bihar, focusing on launching significant rail infrastructure projects. The cornerstone of his visit is a Rs 79 crore Wagon Periodic Overhauling facility at Jamalpur Rail Engine Factory, which will dramatically improve freight wagon maintenance capabilities. This strategic visit comes ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, potentially signaling major developmental commitments. The broader context includes a massive Rs 70,672 crore central allocation for transforming Bihar's railway infrastructure, promising enhanced connectivity and economic opportunities.

"This visit is a potential turning point for rail infrastructure development in Bihar" - Anonymous Railway Source
Ashwini Vaishnaw begins two-day Bihar visit to launch major rail projects in Jamalpur
Patna, May 23: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw embarked on a two-day visit to Bihar on Friday, setting off from Patna Junction via inspection car toward Jamalpur Rail Engine Factory.

Key Points

1

Jamalpur Rail Engine Factory to get advanced wagon maintenance facility

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Rs 79 crore project enhances freight operations

3

Central government allocates Rs 70,672 crore for Bihar rail infrastructure

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Strategic visit before state assembly elections

He was accompanied by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Bihar Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Kumar Sinha and Samrat Choudhary and senior railway officials.

The visit assumes significance as it comes just ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections.

During his visit, the Railway Minister is set to lay the foundation stone for a Wagon Periodic Overhauling (POH) facility at the Jamalpur Rail Engine Factory, worth Rs 79 crore.

Once operational, this facility will enable the monthly overhauling of 545 to 800 freight wagons, enhancing the efficiency and capacity of Indian Railways’ freight operations in the region.

Additionally, the Jamalpur factory is likely to receive the crucial responsibility of maintaining LHB coaches and Vande Bharat trains, marking a significant upgradation of its technical and operational capabilities.

Union Minister Vaishnaw will inspect various technical departments of the factory, interact with workers, and appreciate the efforts of the railway staff.

His visit is seen as a potential turning point for rail infrastructure development in Bihar.

According to sources, the Railway Minister may make further announcements on new train services, redevelopment of stations under the Amrit Bharat Yojana, and pending rail projects.

The focus is expected to be on improving connectivity, station amenities, and passenger comfort.

Recently, the Central government announced a massive allocation of Rs 70,672 crore for railway infrastructure development in Bihar. This Budget is earmarked for new rail lines, gauge conversion projects, station redevelopment, electrification and employment-generating railway hubs.

These initiatives are expected to not only boost connectivity and logistics in the state but also spur job creation and economic growth, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

As Bihar prepares for elections later this year, this visit is being closely watched, both for its developmental promises and political messaging.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Finally some focus on Bihar's rail infrastructure! The Wagon POH facility is much needed - our freight operations have been lagging for years. Hope they deliver on these promises before elections. 🤞
P
Priya M.
Good to see Jamalpur factory getting upgraded for Vande Bharat maintenance. But will local workers get proper training? Often such projects bring fancy equipment but skills remain outdated. Focus on human resource development too!
A
Amit S.
₹70,672 crore allocation sounds impressive, but we've heard big numbers before. What matters is how much actually reaches the ground. Bihar needs these projects completed on time, not just announced before elections.
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Sunita R.
As someone from Jamalpur, this is exciting news! Our factory has so much potential. Hope this brings more jobs for local youth. Just request the minister to also look at improving staff quarters and basic amenities for railway families here.
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Vikram J.
While new projects are welcome, what about completing the pending ones? The Darbhanga-Sitamarhi line has been under construction for a decade! Development shouldn't be just about photo-ops before elections.
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Neha T.
The focus on freight operations is smart - Bihar's economy needs better logistics. But please don't forget passenger amenities! Our stations need clean toilets, better seating and proper shelters. Small improvements make big differences in daily commute.

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Tags:
Ashwini Vaishnaw Bihar Rail Projects Indian Railways Jamalpur Rail Engine Factory Infrastructure Development