Godda Railway Station: A Growing Hub of Passenger Services
Godda district became connected to the railway network on April 8, 2021, with the commencement of the first passenger train service, the “Hamsafar” train. Initially, only one train was operational, but by the end of 2021, four more trains were added, and now, the number has reached 14.
According to information from the railway authorities, from April to November 2024, the revenue generated from passenger trains was ₹5,23,15,447, with approximately 3 lakh passengers traveling during this period.
In the UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System), from April to November 2024, 1,66,783 unreserved tickets were sold, with 2,37,591 passengers traveling. This generated ₹1,91,07,750 in revenue for the railways. In comparison, the previous year, during the same period, 1,05,719 tickets were sold, with 1,70,223 passengers traveling, generating ₹98,61,305 in revenue. This year, the revenue from unreserved ticket sales increased by more than ₹92 lakh.
On the other hand, in the same period, for PRS (Passenger Reservation System) tickets, 38,915 reserved tickets were sold, with 62,418 passengers traveling, generating ₹3,32,07,697 in revenue.
In 2024, Godda received four new trains. In terms of train operations, Godda now ranks third in the Malda division, with only Malda and Bhagalpur having more trains. The Malda division has 105 stations. The new trains operating from Godda include:
- A weekly train between Godda and Mumbai (Lokmanya Tilak Terminal),
- A weekly train between Godda and Gomtinagar,
- A weekly train between Godda and Delhi Anand Vihar,
- A daily train between Godda and Deoghar.
Currently, the modernization work of Godda Railway Station is underway under the Amrit Bharat Scheme. The installation of escalators has nearly been completed, which will provide added convenience for passengers. Additionally, the work for a new coaching depot has also begun.
Key Role of the Local MP in Railway Development
Since the commencement of rail operations in Godda on April 8, 2021, the growth of train services and passenger facilities has been continuous. Local Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Nishikant Dubey has played a crucial role in the development of the railway infrastructure. He has consistently worked toward the progress of railways in the region. In the coming days, work will also begin on the first phase of the Godda-Pirpainti railway project.
Ticketing and Increased Passenger Traffic at Godda Station
With the increasing number of trains and passengers, unreserved ticket sales at Godda Station are now managed by private agents, replacing the previous system where railway staff handled ticket counters. The change is part of the privatization process under the STBA (Station Ticket Booking Agent) scheme.
As passenger numbers grow, some challenges may arise. However, the railways assure that passengers will face no inconvenience. Currently, Godda Station falls under the NSG-6 category, indicating its importance in the railway network.
