At least 9 trains cancelled, 14 diverted due to Goods train derailment on Howrah-Delhi route | See List

Rail operations on the vital Howrah-Patna-Delhi route came to a grinding halt after eight wagons of a freight train derailed in Bihar's Jamui district. The accident occurred late Saturday night between the Lahaban and Simultala stations under the Asansol division of Eastern Railway. The derailment caused significant damage to the tracks, leading to an immediate suspension of traffic on both the up and down lines, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at various stations.

The impact on passenger services has been massive, with the railway administration forced to cancel nine trains and divert 14 others. Major long-distance trains, including the 13020 Bagh Express (Muzaffarpur–Howrah), were diverted via Barauni, skipping nearly 16 scheduled stations. Similarly, the 13019 Bagh Express remained cancelled between Andal and Kiul. The diversion has resulted in trains running several hours behind schedule, causing widespread frustration among commuters during the year-end travel season.

Key trains cancelled for December 28, 2025, include 12369, 13030, 13105, and several passenger specials (63297, 63298, 63566, 63571, 63572, 63574). Railway technical teams from Asansol and Kiul reached the spot shortly after the mishap with accident relief trains and cranes. Restoration work is currently underway in full swing to clear the debris and repair the mangled tracks, but officials suggest it may take several more hours before the route is fully operational for high-speed traffic.

The Eastern Railway has set up help desks at major stations like Howrah, Asansol, and Patna to assist passengers with refund and alternative travel information. While no injuries were reported as the derailment involved a goods train, a high-level inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the accident. Preliminary checks are focusing on potential track fractures or mechanical failure of the wagons, as the incident occurred on a crucial stretch connecting Eastern India to the national capital.