What Major Developments Did Ashwini Vaishnaw Announce for Jamalpur Rail Factory?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Investment of Rs 350 crore for the Jamalpur rail factory.
- Transformation into a Centre of Excellence.
- Foundation stone laid for a Rs 78.96 crore wagon overhaul project.
- Engineering education opportunities at IRIMI starting in 2026.
- Commitment to modernizing infrastructure and creating jobs.
Patna, May 23 (NationPress) In a historic visit, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw made his way to the renowned rail factory located in Bihar's Jamalpur, which is notable as the first visit by a Railway Minister in nearly 17 years.
On Friday, Vaishnaw unveiled an extensive development initiative for the factory, declaring a substantial investment of Rs 350 crore for the first phase aimed at evolving it into a Centre of Excellence, following a recent government assessment.
Upon arriving at Jamalpur Junction in a specially designated saloon coach, he received a warm welcome from thousands of local residents.
He took time to examine the ongoing redevelopment efforts at the railway station under the Amrit Bharat Yojana before proceeding to the Jamalpur Rail Factory, where he presented the iconic 140-tonne crane -- a testament to Jamalpur's engineering heritage -- to the Indian Railways.
Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for a project worth Rs 78.96 crore aimed at improving the capacity for wagon Periodic Overhaul.
While speaking at the Indian Railways Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IRIMI) auditorium, the Minister stressed the significance of Jamalpur as Asia's pioneering railway workshop and reaffirmed the Central government's dedication to its modernization and comprehensive development.
Also attending the event were Union Minister and local MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Bihar Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha, along with local MLAs from Munger district.
During the occasion, Minister Vaishnaw shared that starting in 2026, students from throughout the region -- not exclusively from railway families -- will have the opportunity to pursue engineering studies at IRIMI.
He also pointed out that a specialized survey team had evaluated the factory's potential for transformation, and the forthcoming changes will not only modernize operations but also create new opportunities for technical education and employment for the local youth.
Addressing the press, Minister Vaishnaw remarked on Operation Sindoor, stating, "India has now achieved self-reliance and has dismantled every single terror infrastructure across the border. This operation exemplifies a new, empowered Bharat."
The Minister's visit and his announcements herald a transformative uplift for infrastructure, education, and employment in the region, with Jamalpur once again set to play a pivotal role in the future of Indian Railways.