Goods Train Derailment in Jamui Continues to Disrupt Howrah–Patna–Delhi Rail Route

Railway services along the Howrah–Patna–Delhi main line remain severely disrupted for the third consecutive day after a goods train derailment in Jamui district, Bihar, significantly affecting train operations on one of India’s busiest rail corridors. The derailment occurred late on 27 December, when multiple wagons of a cement-laden freight train derailed between Lahaban and Simultala stations under the Eastern Railway’s Asansol Division, causing major interruptions to both up and down lines.

Despite continued restoration efforts, the main line has not yet been fully reopened, with officials citing safety as the top priority before resumption of regular services. Railway teams have deployed Accident Relief Trains (ARTs) and engineering crews to clear debris, repair tracks and conduct thorough inspections of the affected section. Until full clearance is achieved, trains have been cancelled, diverted or delayed, disrupting travel over the holiday period and frustrating many passengers stranded at key junctions such as Jasidih, Jhajha and Simultala. 

Railways authorities have reported that at least 87 trains have been diverted via alternate routes and approximately 30 services cancelled, while a further number are running late due to the adjustments. Commuters have faced prolonged waits in cold, foggy conditions, prompting criticism from passenger groups about communication gaps and limited amenities at affected stations.

A five-officer investigation team appointed by the Railway Board is conducting a detailed probe into the cause and sequence of events leading to the derailment, with a report expected within 72 hours. Officials have stressed that operations on

the main line will resume only after safety clearance, noting that part-cleared sections still present risks for high-speed movement.

Passengers are advised to check train statuses online or at station counters before travel and consider alternate arrangements if possible, as disruptions may continue throughout today amid ongoing restoration work.
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