High speed train will pass through 80 villages of this district in UP, 1305 hectares of land will be acquired

The Indian Railways is rapidly advancing plans to launch a superfast train from Varanasi to Howrah. This ambitious project aims to connect two of India’s most prominent cities, drastically reducing travel time and boosting connectivity across multiple states. The railway ministry has expedited the project, with preliminary surveys already completed. Here's a detailed overview of the upcoming Varanasi-Howrah high-speed train project.

High-Speed Train Corridor from Varanasi to Howrah

One of the most significant developments in India's rail sector, the Varanasi to Howrah high-speed train corridor, will be a game-changer. Designed to cut down the travel time between these two cities to just three to four hours, the corridor will span through multiple states, bringing cutting-edge rail technology to the country.

Key Features of the Varanasi-Howrah High-Speed Train Project

• Length of the Corridor: The high-speed corridor is planned to stretch around 800 kilometers.
• Speed of Trains: Trains will be able to run at speeds of 250 to 350 kilometers per hour, allowing for much faster travel compared to current options.
• Journey Time: The total travel time between Varanasi and Howrah is expected to be cut down to just three to four hours.

Land Acquisition and Construction Plan

For the project to move forward, approximately 1305 hectares of land will be acquired. The high-speed train will pass through several districts and cover about 800 villages in Varanasi alone. Elevated bridges, some stretching long distances, will be constructed as part of the corridor. The tracks will run at an elevation of 15 meters above ground level, and agricultural activities or construction below these tracks will not be permitted.

To accommodate the high-speed trains, land with a width of 17.5 meters will be required for the elevated line. The authorities have identified various spots, and the alignment survey has already been completed.

Survey and Station Location

The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), the consultant agency of the railway ministry, has completed the alignment survey and forwarded the details to the district administration. A list of 80 villages has been identified for the corridor's construction, primarily in the Sadar Tehsil region. Villages such as Lachhapur, Gurudasapur, Chakkiya, Rajpur, and Khajuri are among the shortlisted locations.

In Varanasi district, the high-speed train will run for a total of 49 kilometers. The station in Varanasi will be located near Ring Road in Harahua. Surveys for the station, yard, and safety centers have been completed, and plans for the necessary infrastructure are in motion.

High-Speed Train Route and Key Stations

The high-speed train will connect Varanasi to Howrah via several significant towns and cities, passing through multiple states. The route is as follows:

• Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi, Chandauli, Ghazipur
• Bihar: Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Jehanabad, Gaya
• Jharkhand: Hazaribagh, Giridih, Dhanbad
• West Bengal: Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman, Hooghly, Howrah

In total, 13 stations will be constructed between Varanasi and Howrah, including a primary station in Varanasi and others across Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. These stations will help boost connectivity and enhance regional development.

Passenger Capacity and Train Features

This high-speed train will feature four coaches, each equipped with modern amenities, and will be capable of carrying 750 passengers. The experience promises to be both fast and comfortable, with advanced technology ensuring a smooth ride.

Economic and Social Impact of the High-Speed Train

Once operational, the Varanasi to Howrah high-speed train is expected to have a transformative impact on the region:

• Reduced Travel Time: The primary benefit of this train is the drastically reduced travel time, enabling passengers to commute between the two cities in just three to four hours. This is a significant improvement from the current 12-14 hour travel time by conventional trains.

• Boost to Local Economies: The project will benefit various local businesses and industries, providing better access to larger markets. The shorter travel times are expected to promote tourism in key areas such as Varanasi, Patna, and Gaya, boosting local economies.

• Improved Infrastructure: With the development of new stations, yards, and the high-speed rail corridor itself, the region’s infrastructure will see significant improvements, providing long-term benefits to the local population.

• Increased Job Opportunities: The construction and operation of the high-speed train project will create thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly. From construction workers to train operators and station staff, the economic impact of the project will be felt across multiple sectors.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the numerous advantages of the Varanasi-Howrah high-speed train, certain challenges must be addressed:

• Land Acquisition: The project requires a substantial amount of land, and securing this land may lead to delays, especially if there are legal or social disputes. Proper compensation and resettlement plans will need to be in place to ensure that landowners are adequately compensated.

• Environmental Impact: Building an elevated rail corridor over such a large distance may have environmental consequences. Authorities must ensure that the construction process is eco-friendly and that local ecosystems are preserved.

• Cost of Travel: While the train will significantly reduce travel time, ticket prices are still under consideration. Affordable pricing will be key to ensuring that a broad range of passengers can benefit from the service.