Patna: PM Narendra Modi is likely to flag off five new trains originating from the Samastipur division of the East Central Railway (ECR) on April 24. Preparations are underway to ensure the grand success of the event which is expected to be a significant step towards enhancing the region’s transportation infrastructure. According to railway sources, the PM will flag off Bihar’s first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, which will run between Madhubani and Patna Junction. The semi-high-speed service promises to drastically cut down travel time and offer enhanced comforts, beginning a new era of modern rail travel for the people of the state. In addition, Modi will also flag off a new Amrit Bharat Express, between Saharsa and LLT Mumbai, aimed at catering to the large migrant population from Bihar who frequently travel to the western metropolis for work and other purposes. “The train is expected to provide a more affordable and comfortable journey,” sources said, adding that passenger trains on the Pipra-Saharsa, Bithan-Samastipur and Alauli-Saharsa are other new passenger trains to be flagged off by Modi. Extensive preparations have been initiated, including station beautification, logistical arrangements, and passenger outreach, to ensure a smooth rollout of the programme. Sources said the launch is expected to be held virtually through videoconferencing from Madhubani, where the PM is to attend the Panchayati Raj function. Samastipur divisional railway manager Vinay Srivastava told this newspaper, that though railways has started making all the preparations for the mega function, an official communication from the Railway Board is yet to reach the divisional headquarters at Samastipur. “These new trains are part of railways broader efforts to improve connectivity, enhance passenger experience and support regional development in the northern Bihar,” he said.
