Lucknow: In a significant development for Eastern Uttar Pradesh, the detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed new railway line between Bahraich and Jarwal Road has been finalized. Union Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that the survey for the 70-kilometer line has been completed, and the DPR is ready.
Currently, Bahraich and Jarwal Road are connected via Gonda Junction. However, the new direct line will provide faster, smoother, and more efficient connectivity, reducing travel time and boosting the region’s economic, social, and industrial growth.
Approval Process and Related Projects
The Railways Minister clarified that following the DPR preparation, the project will undergo consultations with the state government and other concerned departments, review by NITI Aayog, and approval from the Ministry of Finance.
Several other projects have also been approved to strengthen rail connectivity in the region. These include:
- Budhwal–Jarwal Road–Gonda Kachahri Fourth Line (56 km)
- Budhwal–Jarwal Road–Gonda Third Line (62 km)
- Barabanki–Budhwal Third Line (27 km)
- Bahraich–Khalilabad New Line (240 km)
Golden Era of Rail Development in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is witnessing a historic phase of railway expansion. So far, 49 rail projects covering 3,807 kilometers have been approved at an estimated cost of ₹62,360 crore, enhancing connectivity and providing passengers with faster, safer, and more convenient travel.
Railway budget allocations for the state have surged dramatically in recent years. While projects were funded at an average of ₹1,109 crore per year between 2009 and 2014, allocations for 2025-26 have jumped to approximately ₹19,858 crore—an 18-fold increase.
Between 2009-14, only 996 km of new lines were commissioned in the state. This figure rose to 5,272 km during 2014-25, averaging 479 km per year, more than double the previous period. Of the 49 approved projects, 1,323 km are operational, with an expenditure of ₹30,611 crore to date.
Challenges and Impact
The Railways Ministry noted that factors such as land acquisition, forest clearances, legal approvals, geography, law and order, and fund availability influence project timelines and costs.
With the DPR for the Bahraich–Jarwal Road line now complete, this much-anticipated project is poised to accelerate. Once operational, it will provide a robust foundation for enhanced railway connectivity in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, offering the public faster, safer, and more convenient travel.
