Land acquisition for new railway line project begins in Bahraich

Bahraich: With the Railway Board approving the project, the land acquisition process for the new Khalilabad-Bahraich railway line via Balrampur and Shravasti has begun.

"The gazette notification for land acquisition for the new railway line, spanning approximately 240 kilometers, in Bahraich has been issued," DM Bahraich Monica Rani told TOI on Tuesday.

Insisting that the line is expected to greatly improve regional connectivity and ease transportation for residents and businesses alike, the DM said that the new railway line will pass through Balrampur, Shravasti, and Bahraich districts, providing a much-needed rail connection to several remote areas for the very first time.

"The development project is poised to enhance local transportation facilities and stimulate commercial activities across the region," said the DM, while adding, "As part of the project, a halt station is planned at Hansuwadol village in Balrampur district."

The Balrampur railway station will be upgraded to a junction. Plans have also been drawn up for 10 new railway stations across Shravasti and Bahraich districts.

Railway authorities have specified that laying the railway line will require 40 feet wide land, while station construction will need 100 meters wide plots, which will also improve the area's overall infrastructure. However, some concerns have emerged among farmers about land acquisition, especially before harvesting. Several farmers are hesitant to sow crops, fearing acquisition may occur mid-season. There have been calls for railway authorities to ensure that farmers' interests are safeguarded during the process.

To kickstart the project, the govt has allocated a budget of Rs 620 crore for constructing the initial 80-kilometer stretch from Bahraich to Shravasti to Balrampur. The railway has set a completion target of 2026 for the entire 240-km line covering Khalilabad, Mehdawal, Dumariyaganj, Utraula, Shravasti, Bhinga, and Bahraich.

New stations are planned at Bardehra, Bhinga, Lakshmanpur, Godpurwa, Ikauna, Shravasti, Khagaijot, Shridataganj, Utraula, Banjraha, Dumariyaganj, Bhaggobhar, Bansi, Khesraha, Mehdawal, and Bhagauli Bazaar.

The construction of these new stations is expected to spur the development of hotels, eateries, shops, and other businesses, creating new employment opportunities and accelerating the economic growth of the region, said an official.