The long wait for a stable rail connection between Gopalganj and the state capital is finally over. The Ministry of Railways has issued an official notification to make the Patna-Thawe Intercity Express a permanent service. Previously running as a temporary “Puja Special,” this train will now operate daily without the need for monthly extensions. While the notification was issued on February 11, 2026, the regular operations under the new permanent status are expected to settle by March 1, 2026.
What is the new timing and schedule?
The railway administration has planned a schedule that suits daily commuters and those traveling for work. The train will run every day, providing a reliable link between the two cities. Officials have stated that while these are the proposed timings, minor adjustments might happen to avoid traffic on the tracks.
- Patna Departure: The train leaves Patna Junction at 12:10 PM and reaches Thawe Junction at 07:00 PM.
- Thawe Departure: The return trip starts from Thawe at 08:00 PM and arrives in Patna at 03:00 AM.
- Service Type: It is now a permanent Intercity Express, replacing the old special numbers with regular ones like 55515/55516.
How much money will passengers save?
Traveling by road between Patna and Gopalganj has become quite expensive, but this train offers a budget-friendly option. For students, patients, and small traders, the price difference is massive. A general ticket on this train costs nearly five times less than a bus seat.
| Travel Mode | Estimated Fare |
|---|---|
| Bus Journey | ₹500 approx |
| Train (General) | ₹105 – ₹110 |
| Train (AC Class) | Up to ₹795 |
Who will benefit from this decision?
This is the first direct permanent Intercity train for the people of Gopalganj and surrounding areas like Siwan and Chhapra. Local MLA Mithilesh Tiwari called it a major gift for the region, as people previously relied on expensive buses or infrequent passenger trains. The North Eastern Railway (NER) has already alerted stations like Masrakh and Dighwa Dubauli to upgrade their operations for this permanent service.
