New Delhi, August 1, 2023: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to mark a significant milestone in India’s railway infrastructure by laying the foundation stone for the ambitious redevelopment project of Darbhanga Railway Station.
The inauguration ceremony will be held on August 6, 2023, through a virtual event, where the Prime Minister will remotely inaugurate the project, signaling its commencement.
The redevelopment plan aims to transform Darbhanga Junction into a world-class railway station, offering state-of-the-art facilities and improved passenger amenities.
This transformative initiative comes as part of the Ministry of Railways’ plan to upgrade 12 stations in the Samastipur division, with Darbhanga Junction being a key inclusion in the list.
A comprehensive survey has already been conducted by the Rail Land Development Authority to formulate the master plan, cost estimate, and detailed project report (DPR) for the redevelopment of Darbhanga Railway Station.
Inspecting the progress on November 24, 2022, a five-member team from the Rail Land Development Authority, led by Mr. Manish Kumar, Samastipur Division, Upper Railway Division 2, closely examined the master plan in coordination with the officials of the Engineering and Commercial Branch. This scrutiny ensured the meticulous preparation of estimates and DPRs for the upcoming redevelopment.
The redevelopment project will involve various infrastructural upgrades and enhancements, all designed to cater to the increasing passenger demand over the next 45 years.
Among the notable features are the widening of the road in front of the railway junction to 16 meters, the relocation of Zilla Parishad shops, and the beautification of Harahi Talab.
Additionally, a Road Over Bridge (ROB) will be constructed on the museum Gumti, and encroachments around the station premises will be removed.
A substantial investment of ₹350 crore has been allocated for the comprehensive redevelopment of Darbhanga Junction. As part of the redevelopment plan, a spacious 72-meter-wide departure concourse will be constructed to ensure smoother passenger movement. The station will have entry and exit gates on both the eastern and western sides, facilitating easy access for travelers.
The existing model of the railway junction will undergo significant renovations, featuring a grand waiting room on the first floor, complemented by various food and beverage facilities.
Moreover, the station will be made more accessible to all passengers, as foot overbridges, escalators, and lifts will be provided on all platforms to accommodate physically challenged travelers.
The redevelopment project also encompasses the construction of a commercial mall, shopping mall, and residential buildings, with existing structures to be renovated. A commercial mall will be built on the southwest corner of the station premises, to be leased out by the Railways to private enterprises.
Additionally, a multi-story parking facility will be developed within the station premises, optimizing space for vehicle parking. The overall beautification of the station premises will add to the aesthetic appeal of the project.
From the Kathalbari side, a shopping mall and residential building will be constructed, further enhancing the overall development. Notably, platform number 6 will be built in the eastern part of Darbhanga Railway Junction, equipped with entry and exit gates, a 550-meter-long platform, and a 125-meter-long station building.
The new gate will be accompanied by essential passenger facilities, including ticket counters, waiting halls, parking arrangements, and foot overbridges.
The redevelopment project encompasses a total of 12 stations in the Samastipur Railway Division and is part of the government’s Amrit Bharat Yojana, which aims to upgrade railway infrastructure across the country.
With the foundation stone laying ceremony on August 6, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for transforming Darbhanga Junction into a world-class railway station is set to become a reality, promising enhanced travel experiences for millions of passengers.
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