Bihar is set to receive a major boost to its rail connectivity with the launch of its second Amrit Bharat Express train, which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. This marks yet another milestone in the state’s growing transport infrastructure and symbolizes the Centre’s commitment to enhancing affordable and efficient travel for passengers across the country, especially in regions like Bihar.
The new train will be part of the semi-luxury Amrit Bharat Express series, which has been designed to offer improved comfort, modern amenities, and greater efficiency at a budget-friendly fare. It will operate between Darbhanga and Ayodhya, further strengthening the rail link between Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
PM Modi to Flag Off the Service Virtually
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the train virtually from Delhi, in a ceremony that will also see the launch of other railway projects and new trains across the country. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with senior officials from East Central Railway and local dignitaries, will attend the inaugural function from Bihar.
The first Amrit Bharat Express from Bihar was introduced earlier this year on the Patna-Howrah route and received a warm response from passengers due to its cost-effectiveness and upgraded facilities. The Darbhanga-Ayodhya route is expected to be equally popular, especially among pilgrims, students, and migrant workers traveling between Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
A Comfortable Ride at Affordable Cost
The Amrit Bharat Express is part of Indian Railways’ vision for “affordable modernization.” Unlike premium trains like Vande Bharat, the Amrit Bharat series caters to middle and lower-middle-income travelers, combining traditional sleeper class affordability with upgraded comfort and safety features.
These trains are equipped with modern bio-toilets, LED lighting, mobile charging points, fire safety mechanisms, CCTV surveillance, and improved interiors. The coaches are also built with anti-collision and anti-fire technology, enhancing passenger safety.
Railway officials said the Darbhanga-Ayodhya Amrit Bharat Express will have fully reserved sleeper coaches and general second-class compartments, ensuring both seating and sleeping arrangements for long-distance travelers.
Enhancing Pilgrimage and Regional Connectivity
The new train route connecting Darbhanga, a key cultural and educational hub in north Bihar, with Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram and a major pilgrimage site in Uttar Pradesh, is expected to benefit lakhs of passengers annually. With Ayodhya gaining national attention following the construction of the Ram Mandir, the demand for better rail connectivity to the city has surged.
This train is likely to ease the burden on existing services and give a significant push to religious tourism, while also providing a reliable transport option for local traders and working-class commuters.
Political and Public Impact
The introduction of this train service just months before the upcoming general elections also carries political weight. Prime Minister Modi’s inauguration of the train highlights the central government’s continued focus on infrastructure development in Bihar, a state that plays a crucial role in national politics.
Speaking ahead of the launch, a senior railway official said, “This is a proud moment for Bihar. The Amrit Bharat Express shows how Indian Railways is transforming, not just in speed and technology, but also in accessibility and inclusiveness.”
Public sentiment appears positive, especially in Darbhanga and surrounding districts. Local residents have welcomed the new service, saying it will provide much-needed relief from overcrowded trains and limited options, especially during festivals and peak travel seasons.
Looking Ahead
The Indian Railways has ambitious plans to introduce more Amrit Bharat trains across the country, focusing on routes that have high demand but lack sufficient modern services. These trains are part of a broader modernization agenda under the Amrit Bharat Station and Train Scheme, which includes revamping railway stations and rolling stock to provide a better travel experience for all.
For Bihar, the arrival of a second Amrit Bharat Express not only boosts regional connectivity but also reflects the growing attention the state is receiving in the national infrastructure roadmap. As the train starts its journey from Thursday, it carries with it not just passengers, but also hopes for smoother travel, greater opportunities, and continued development.