Patna

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday announced that Bihar has received its highest-ever railway budget allocation, with more than Rs 10,000 crore earmarked for rail infrastructure development during the current financial year.

Speaking during a visit to the state, Vaishnaw said the enhanced allocation reflects the Centre’s focus on expanding and modernising Bihar’s railway network.

The minister also announced a new express train service connecting Chapra and New Delhi, aimed at improving connectivity for passengers travelling between Bihar and the national capital.

Highlighting the state's growing role in railway manufacturing, Vaishnaw said locomotives produced in Bihar are now being exported overseas. He noted that the 51st locomotive engine manufactured at the Marhowrah Rail Factory is set to be shipped to an African nation.

According to the minister, railway projects worth approximately Rs 1.15 lakh crore are currently under execution across Bihar, making it one of the major beneficiaries of ongoing rail infrastructure investments.

Vaishnaw further stated that expansion work is underway at Patna Junction railway station, where five additional platforms are being constructed to accommodate increasing passenger traffic and improve operational efficiency.

He also said that Fatuha railway station, located near Patna, is being upgraded as part of broader efforts to strengthen rail infrastructure in the region.

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The minister's visit comes amid a series of railway modernisation projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, capacity and freight movement across Bihar.