Jamshedpur: In a major infrastructure push to ease congestion and enhance safety, the Indian Railways has decided to undertake 100 % funding and execution of two crucial Road Over Bridges (ROBs) between Tatanagar and Asanbani.
The announcement was made by MP Bidyut Baran Mahato following his intervention during the ongoing Budget Session. The decision comes after Mahato met Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to express serious concern over the prolonged delay in constructing ROBs at Barigora and Govindpur, where frequent accidents and severe traffic congestion have become a daily ordeal.
Acting promptly, the minister directed his OSD, Vikas Jain, to ensure the swift resolution of the matter. Jain subsequently consulted Anil Kumar Mishra, General Manager of the South Eastern Railway, who initiated corrective measures.
As per the official communication issued by the South Eastern Railway, Level Crossing Nos. 137 (Govindpur) and 138 (Barigora), located on the highly congested Asanbani–Tatanagar section, will now be replaced with ROBs constructed entirely at the Railway’s expense.
Earlier, the project had been approved under a 50:50 cost-sharing model between the Railways and the State Government under a dual-agency framework. However, given the critical operational challenges—owing to heavy train frequency on one of the busiest triple-line ‘A’ category routes and intense road traffic—the arrangement has now been revised.
The twin-level crossings have long posed operational difficulties, leading to persistent traffic snarls and delays in rail movement. Recognising the urgency, the Railways has opted for a single-agency execution model, fully funded by itself.
Necessary procedures for implementation have already commenced. Sources said that repeated requests were made to the state government to expedite the project, but with little response forthcoming. Following sustained follow-up by Mahato, the Railway administration has now taken sole responsibility to fast-track the construction.
Meanwhile, a proposal for another ROB near Makdumpur railway gate is currently under consideration. The move is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion, improve commuter safety, and streamline rail operations in one of the busiest corridors under the South Eastern Railway.
