Could Vande Bharat Transform Connectivity in Remote Bihar?

Purnea (Bihar), Sep 15 (NationPress) — On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several groundbreaking railway services from Bihar’s Purnea district, ushering in a new chapter of connectivity and growth for the Seemanchal and neighboring regions of the state. Key among these inaugurations were the Jogbani-Danapur Vande Bharat Express, Jogbani-Erode Amrit Bharat Express, and Saharsa-Amritsar Amrit Bharat Express, a development that locals celebrated as a watershed moment for one of Bihar’s most neglected areas.

As the inaugural Vande Bharat train departed from Jogbani station, the enthusiasm was infectious among passengers, many of whom were experiencing such modern rail travel for the very first time.

For numerous passengers, it was a landmark moment traveling aboard a Vande Bharat train. For some, it was their first genuine connection to the rest of the nation.

“This is our first journey on the Vande Bharat, and it’s astonishing to witness how far Bihar has advanced,” shared a passenger from Purnea. “Previously, trips that took us 12 hours will now be completed in just four. This is not merely a convenience—it is a transformation.”

Just a few years ago, the thought of such a train traversing the Seemanchal region—more recognized for its floodplains and border towns rather than for high-speed connectivity—would have seemed like an unattainable dream. Yet, on this day, the scenery had dramatically shifted.

“It genuinely feels like a dream come true,” remarked a resident of Araria, gazing out at the countryside as the train rushed past. “In our area, especially near the Nepal border, there was virtually no connectivity. During the monsoon season, boats were our only means of transport. Now, we have the Vande Bharat.”

This sentiment resonated throughout the train.

“This link from the Nepal border to Patna will unlock opportunities we never imagined,” noted another traveler. “We are truly grateful to Prime Minister Modi and the Railways for making the unthinkable a reality.”

Excitement wasn't limited to adults. A school student from Forbesganj, sitting with friends, beamed with pride.

“Our school brought us here for the inaugural ride,” she exclaimed. “I’m the first student to travel on the inaugural Vande Bharat from Forbesganj. I never thought this day would arrive. But thanks to our Prime Minister and Chief Minister, it’s finally here.”

For the residents along the Forbesganj-Jogbani route, the train represents more than just convenience—it is a revolution. A local man reflected on the drastic changes: “We come from a place where our only transportation options were walking, bullock carts, or rickshaws. Having a Vande Bharat running through our region? This is not trivial—it’s a significant milestone.”

Even experienced train travelers were left in awe.

“I’ve taken trains before,” admitted a first-time Vande Bharat passenger, “but nothing compares to this. The seating, the amenities, the smooth journey—it all feels incredibly modern. It’s exhilarating to know that ordinary people like us can enjoy this.”