The Ministry of Railways has approved two key infrastructure projects in Gujarat and Bihar to strengthen rail connectivity, reduce congestion and improve operational efficiency. The combined cost of the projects is Rs 6,475.8 million (mn). The approvals form part of Indian Railways' wider capacity augmentation and network decongestion programme and reflect sustained investment in rail infrastructure. The projects are intended to support growing demand for both passenger and freight movement across the affected corridors.

One project involves the construction of a Rail Over Rail (RoR) flyover at Kosamba under Western Railway to integrate the nine point two kilometre Kosamba–Umrapada gauge conversion section with the Mumbai–Vadodara main line at an estimated cost of Rs 3,443.8 mn. The RoR structure is required because the alignment of the Dedicated Freight Corridor renders surface crossings unfeasible, making grade separation the viable option. Once completed, the flyover is expected to enable seamless connectivity and safer, uninterrupted train movement while maximising the benefits of the ongoing gauge conversion. Reduced interface with the freight corridor is expected to cut delays and improve scheduled operating windows for both services.

The second project is the construction of a 13.38 kilometre rail bypass at Bhagalpur under Eastern Railway at an estimated cost of Rs 3,032.0 mn. The bypass will connect Gonudham Halt on the Barahat–Bhagalpur section with Sabour on the Bhagalpur–Sahibganj route, eliminating the need for time consuming engine reversals at Bhagalpur junction. The Barahat–Bhagalpur section is currently operating beyond 125 per cent capacity, leading to severe congestion and delays.

The Ministry anticipates that the bypass will ease congestion, improve punctuality and streamline operations for both passenger and freight services. Both projects are expected to enhance safety and operational fluidity while supporting growing demand for rail movement. Implementation of the schemes is projected to reduce dwell time at critical junctions and to improve the reliability of schedules on the connected routes. The initiatives are in line with ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure and decongest the national rail network.