Demand for Vande Bharat Express Halt at Bagaha Station Gains Momentum
Vande Bharat Express: There is considerable enthusiasm among the people of the Bagaha region regarding the Vande Bharat Express running between Gorakhpur and Patna. The demand for a halt at Bagaha station for this train, tentatively scheduled to commence on June 20th, is rapidly increasing. The local Member of Parliament (MP) has taken this issue seriously, meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Delhi to detail the necessity of a halt.
Issue Raised in Meeting with Railway Minister
The MP from Valmikinagar submitted a memorandum to the Railway Minister, stating that a large number of passengers travel daily from Bagaha railway station, including those from Uttar Pradesh and Nepal. Additionally, the region boasts the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, religious sites, and other tourist attractions that draw domestic and international tourists. Therefore, a Vande Bharat train halt in Bagaha is considered essential.
Substantial Revenue Generation for Railways
Bagaha railway station generates approximately ₹200,000 to ₹250,000 in revenue daily for the railways. Annually, this figure reaches approximately ₹80 to ₹90 million. A halt for a modern, superfast train like the Vande Bharat Express at this station could further increase railway revenue.
Demand Linked to Tourism and Population Density
The Bagaha region includes blocks like Valmikinagar, Harnautand, Semra, Harinagar, Chautarwa, and Gandak Par, with a significant population from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and border areas. A large number of students, traders, and working professionals travel to Gorakhpur and Patna from this region. A Vande Bharat train halt would make their journeys smoother and faster.
Support from Local Leaders and Organizations
Senior JDU leader Rakesh Kumar Singh stated that the MP is persistently working towards securing a Vande Bharat halt. Previously, the MP met with the General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway, the Divisional Railway Manager of Samastipur, and other senior officials. Social media also shows a significant number of posts and comments advocating for a Vande Bharat halt in Bagaha.
Public Reaction on Social Media
Local teacher Sunil Kumar Raut has drawn the attention of the government and representatives through internet media. Many local people, including Rakesh Singh, Prem Kumar, Saurabh Swatantr, and Kundan Kumar, believe that a Vande Bharat Express halt in Bagaha must be ensured.
Key Benefits of Vande Bharat Halt for Passengers
- Direct and faster travel facility towards Gorakhpur and Patna.
- Easier access to higher education institutions for students in the region.
- Boost to tourism and improved connectivity for local businesses.
- Time savings and balanced traffic load.