(a) whether there is no direct train between Kishanganj and Patna which takes less than fourteen hours;
(b) whether the Ministry is planning to start Jan Shatabadi train between Kishanganj and Patna so as to reduce the travelling time for the people; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF RAILWAYS, COMMERCE & INDUSTRY AND
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a) to (c) Prior to discontinuation of regular passenger services w.e.f. 23.03.2020, to contain the spread the COVID 19 pandemic, Kishanganj – Patna sector was served by 13 pairs of Mail/Express trains. In view of the prevailing conditions, at present, only special trains with limited stoppages keeping in view the suggestions and concerns of State Governments are being operated and accordingly, 11 pairs of special train services are serving Kishanganj-Patna sector, whose waitlist position is being regularly monitored. At present, there is no proposal to introduce new train service (including Jan Shatabdi service) between Kishanganj and Patna. However, introduction of trains is an on-going process on Indian Railways subject to operational feasibility, commercial viability, resource availability, competing demands etc.
*****