Mokama’s new rail bridge commissioned, boosting north-south Bihar train connectivity

Indian Railways has recently commissioned the Mokama's new rail bridge across River Ganga in Bihar. The bridge, estimated to have cost around Rs 2,400 crore, will significantly enhance rail connectivity between the northern and southern regions of Bihar. This new route will offer both passenger and freight train services, providing an alternative to the existing Rajendra Pul, which has been in operation since 1959.

The new bridge, which runs parallel to Rajendra Pul, features a double railway line. Its construction began about 50 meters from the existing bridge, spanning approximately 15.5 kilometers, including a 1.9-kilometer main bridge over the Ganga that connects Mokama and Barauni. The main bridge comprises 17 steel spans, while the project also incorporates around 3.6 kilometers of rail viaducts. In addition, there are eight minor bridges, two road overbridges, and three rail-over-rail structures.

The Mokama rail bridge was officially opened for train operations after receiving clearance from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) of the Eastern Circle. The safety inspection of the bridge and its associated double-line railway line took place on October 3 and 4, 2026. Following the safety approval, train operations commenced on the new bridge around midnight, with the first train to cross being the Mahananda Express.

Saraswati Chandra, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of East Central Railway, stated that the new bridge will coexist with the existing Rajendra Pul, allowing train operations to continue on both. With the new double-line bridge alongside the existing one, a total of three railway lines will be available, significantly increasing capacity for train movement on the busy Delhi-Howrah rail corridor.

This enhanced connectivity is expected to benefit the movement of essential goods and trade in the region, potentially reducing transportation costs and times.

The new rail bridge over the Ganga not only strengthens north-south Bihar train connectivity but also provides an additional rail route between these regions and the northeastern parts of the country. Railway officials anticipate a substantial increase in railway traffic on this corridor, estimating a potential threefold rise in capacity. This improved connectivity is set to streamline freight movement and support the growth of trade and commercial activity in the area.