Tracks of Transformation—Patna to Anchor Next Phase of India’s Bullet Network

Image Source: Swarajya

Patna is on the brink of a transportation revolution as the survey for the Delhi-Howrah bullet train corridor nears completion, officially positioning Bihar’s capital on India’s high-speed rail map. The project promises to drastically reduce travel times across Eastern India, with Patna emerging as a key stop on the futuristic route.

Project Highlights

The Delhi-Howrah bullet train corridor will span 1,669 km, with Patna strategically placed between Delhi and Kolkata.
Once operational, travel time from Patna to Delhi will shrink to just 4 hours (down from 13–14 hours), and Patna to Kolkata will take just over 2 hours (currently 6 hours).
A dedicated high-speed rail station is planned near Phulwari Sharif, making Patna the only scheduled stop in Bihar.

Infrastructure & Route Details

The corridor will be developed in two phases:
Phase 1: Delhi to Varanasi via Lucknow and Ayodhya (targeted for completion by 2029)
Phase 2: Varanasi to Howrah via Patna
In Bihar, the train will pass through Buxar, Patna, and Kiul, with tracks laid parallel to existing railway lines to minimize land acquisition.
A 60.9 km elevated track is planned in Patna, requiring 135 hectares of land across 58 villages, with compensation models already in place.

Economic & Social Impact

The bullet train is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and regional connectivity, while reducing carbon emissions and congestion.
Local residents and landowners are being engaged through transparent compensation frameworks, offering up to 4x the circle rate in rural zones.

Leadership Commentary

“This is a transformative moment for Bihar. Patna’s inclusion in the bullet train corridor will redefine mobility and unlock new economic opportunities,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Railways.

Sources: Mathrubhumi, Patna Press, News18, Jagran