New Double-Line Rail Bridge in Mokama Enhances Connectivity Between North and South Bihar

Mokama, October 4 (Daily Kiran) : A new double-line rail bridge over the Ganges in Mokama, Bihar, has been inspected and approved for operation by Guru Prakash, the Railway Safety Commissioner of the Eastern Circle in Kolkata. Following this approval, train operations can now commence on the newly constructed bridge, which runs parallel to the existing Rajendra Bridge.

On October 3 and 4, the Railway Safety Commissioner evaluated the new Rajendra Bridge-Hathidah rail bridge, which has been developed for both freight and passenger transport. The inspection also covered related works at Rajendra Bridge, Hathidah, Rampur Dumra, and Tal stations.

According to railway officials, the opening of this new bridge will provide an additional rail route connecting North and South Bihar. This development is expected to enhance train operations and strengthen rail connectivity in the region.

The construction of the new bridge cost approximately ₹2,400 crore and is situated about 50 meters from the existing Rajendra Bridge, heading towards Patna. It features dual rail lines.

The entire project spans roughly 15.5 kilometers, including a main bridge of 1.9 kilometers over the Ganges. This main bridge comprises 17 steel spans, along with 3.6 kilometers of rail viaduct, eight smaller bridges, two road overbridges, and three rail over rail structures.

The design of the new bridge was planned to minimize changes to the approaches of the old bridge. Both ends of the new structure connect to existing stations, including Hathidah, Tal, and Rampur Dumra to the north, and Rajendra Bridge and Barauni station to the south.

Train operations will continue on the old Rajendra Setu even after the new double-line bridge begins service, allowing for a total of three rail lines on this route.

Railway authorities state that this project will strengthen rail links between North and South Bihar and the northeastern regions of the country. It is anticipated that the improvements will lead to a nearly 2.5-fold increase in railway traffic, benefiting both passenger and freight services.

Additionally, the new bridge is expected to reduce the time and costs associated with freight transport. This will facilitate the movement of goods and essential items, creating new opportunities for enhanced connectivity and economic activities in the region.