Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Launches Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express, Boosting Rail Connectivity in Jharkhand

In a significant boost to rail connectivity in Jharkhand, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today flagged off the Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express, enhancing travel options for the region’s residents. This daily train service will cover a distance of 350 kilometers in just seven hours, offering an affordable fare of ₹125, compared to the current road travel costs of ₹700 to ₹800.

The new service aims to simplify travel for residents and promote business opportunities in the area. The train will operate daily, departing Sahibganj at 5:20 AM and arriving in Howrah at 12:15 PM. It will stop at various stations, including Sakrigali, Tinpahar, Barharwa, Pakaur, Rampur Hat, Bolpur Shantiniketan, Barddhaman, and Bandel. The return journey will leave Howrah at 1:45 PM, reaching Sahibganj at 8:35 PM.

In addition to the Sahibganj-Howrah service, Minister Vaishnaw announced that the Anand Vihar-Agartala Tejas Rajdhani Express will now stop at Sahibganj station. This marks the first halt in Jharkhand for the train, fulfilling a long-standing demand from the Santhal Pargana region. The new stoppage will take effect on October 15, 2024.

Major Developments in Jharkhand’s Rail Sector

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the extensive improvements made in Jharkhand’s rail infrastructure over the past decade, including the construction of 1,200 kilometers of new railway lines and achieving 100% electrification. He noted that the railway budget allocation for Jharkhand has dramatically increased from ₹450 crores a decade ago to ₹7,300 crores today.

As part of ongoing efforts, the redevelopment of 57 stations is currently underway, with an overall planned investment of ₹56,000 crores in the railway sector in Jharkhand. These initiatives aim to enhance travel facilities, attract new industries, and create job opportunities in the state.

Addressing the gathering, Vaishnaw praised the Santhal Pargana region for its historical contributions to India’s independence. He emphasized the importance of improved rail connectivity for students commuting for education and those seeking medical services.

Acknowledgments and Community Impact

The Minister expressed gratitude to local leaders Nishikant Dubey, MP from Godda, and Anant Kumar Ojha, MLA from Rajmahal, for their dedication to serving the region. Both leaders attended the event—Dubey via video conferencing and Ojha at Sahibganj Railway Station. They commended the railway initiatives and highlighted the new services’ potential to connect residents to significant pilgrimage sites during the Navratri festival.

Dubey pointed out that the Giridih railway station, built 140 years ago, had not seen operational trains until the current government took office. This renewed focus on rail connectivity signifies a transformative era for Jharkhand, fostering economic growth and community development.