In recent days, the newly built Amrit Bharat Junction Railway Station in New Bhildi has faced significant problems due to flooding. The railway has constructed a new road connecting the main market and market yard road to the station. However, this road is raised, causing water to accumulate during ordinary rainfall. Passengers are forced to walk through muddy water, leading to widespread anger among railway users. Despite efforts to create a modern station for better passenger facilities, the flooding has caused major discomfort. Passengers have expressed their frustration as both the main market road and market yard road are often flooded after rain, making travel difficult. There is a growing demand for immediate drainage solutions to address this issue.
Additionally, the nearby Soyla railway crossing number 43 frequently closes due to the double-line railway passing through Patan and Kandla routes. As a result, drivers experience long delays waiting for the crossing to open. The community has called for an overbridge to be constructed at this crossing to ease traffic flow. The crossing is close to Bhildi Junction and is affected by the constant movement of freight trains, causing extended closure times. During the hot summer months, drivers often find themselves waiting for a long time at the crossing, which adds to their frustration.
Local leaders have raised this issue multiple times, seeking solutions for the persistent problems at the railway crossing. Despite having two MPs representing the Banaskantha district, railway-related issues remain unresolved. The railway crossing has become a significant problem for the residents of 32 nearby villages, especially during emergencies. Patients needing urgent care have faced life-threatening delays due to the crossing being closed for extended periods. Emergency services have also struggled to reach those in need because of the blocked crossing.
On a brighter note, a new train service has been launched, known as the Bandra Terminus to Barmer Humsafar Express. This train started operating on January 3, 2024, and offers a vital link for Gujarat passengers. The train will pass through 11 cities in Gujarat, including Vapi, Valsad, Surat, Ankleshwar, Vadodara, Anand, Nadiad, Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Patan, and Bhildi. This new service will be a significant benefit for commuters, providing a much-needed connection to Rajasthan.
Passengers can expect various pricing options: for example, a journey from Surat to Barmer on a 3A coach costs ₹1,100, while a sleeper coach ticket costs ₹415. Travelling from Ahmedabad to Barmer costs ₹870 for a 3A coach and ₹335 for a sleeper coach. The train departs from Bandra Terminus at 23:55 and arrives at Barmer at 17:55, covering a distance of approximately 994 km. This service is expected to enhance travel convenience for many, even as the issues at the new railway station continue to affect daily commuters.
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