New Train Service: Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express
Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express via video conferencing. This new train connects Sahibganj to Howrah, covering 350 km in 7 hours at a fare of Rs125, offering a cost-effective travel option compared to the Rs700-Rs800 road journey.
Benefits and Enhancements
The train service is expected to boost business and employment in Jharkhand. Additionally, the Anand Vihar-Agartala Tejas Rajdhani Express will now stop at Sahibganj, making it the only stop in Jharkhand between Bihar and West Bengal.
Train Schedule
| Train | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Sahibganj-Howrah (13428) | 5:20 AM | 12:15 PM |
| Howrah-Sahibganj (13427) | 1:45 PM | 8:35 PM |
The train includes 9 general coaches and 2 SLR/SLRD coaches.
Railway Developments in Jharkhand
Minister Vaishnaw highlighted Jharkhand’s historical significance and the state’s role in India’s independence. He noted a 16-fold increase in railway budget allocation over the past decade, with Rs7,300 crores now dedicated to Jharkhand. The state has achieved 100% railway electrification, and 1,200 km of new lines have been constructed.
Future investments of Rs56,000 crores are planned to improve travel facilities, attract industries, and create jobs. The redevelopment of 57 stations is underway, enhancing connectivity for students and those needing medical services.
Community Acknowledgments
Minister Vaishnaw thanked Nishikant Dubey and Anant Kumar Ojha for their efforts in improving regional rail services. Dubey highlighted the historical significance of the Giridih railway station and the new train services as a Navratri gift, connecting people to important Shakti Peeths.
Doubts Revealed
Ashwini Vaishnaw -: Ashwini Vaishnaw is the Railway Minister of India. He is responsible for overseeing the Indian Railways, which is the government department that manages train services in India.
Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express -: The Sahibganj-Howrah Intercity Express is a new train service that travels between Sahibganj in Jharkhand and Howrah in West Bengal. It is designed to be an affordable travel option for people in the region.
Jharkhand -: Jharkhand is a state in eastern India. It is known for its rich mineral resources and is home to many tribal communities.
Anand Vihar-Agartala Tejas Rajdhani Express -: This is a special train service in India that connects Anand Vihar in Delhi to Agartala in Tripura. It is known for its speed and comfort, and now it will also stop at Sahibganj.
Electrification -: Electrification in the context of railways means using electricity to power trains instead of diesel or coal. This is more environmentally friendly and helps trains run faster and more efficiently.
Railway budget -: The railway budget is the amount of money the government allocates for the development and maintenance of the railway system. A 16-fold increase means the budget has been increased 16 times more than before, which is a significant boost.