Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express to Stop at Manoharpur, Bringing Relief to Passengers

The long-standing demand for a halt of the Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express at Manoharpur railway station in West Singhbhum is set to become a reality. The Railway Board has approved an experimental stoppage for Train Nos. 18189/18190 at Manoharpur following sustained efforts by BJP national secretary and Jharkhand Rajya Sabha MP Dr Pradeep Kumar Verma.

Dr Verma had first taken up the matter with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a letter dated April 3, 2025, seeking stoppages of important express trains at Manoharpur. He highlighted the strategic importance of the station, which connects the region with major railway routes towards Rourkela and Ranchi as well as Jharkhand and West Bengal.

Manoharpur is also an important rail point for passengers travelling to and from industrial and mining areas such as Jamda, Kiriburu, Gua and Barbil. A direct halt of a long-distance express train is expected to particularly benefit workers, traders, students and residents who currently have to depend on other stations or alternative modes of transport for several journeys.

Following Dr Verma's representation, the Railway Ministry directed concerned officials on July 1, 2025, to examine the operational feasibility of providing train stoppages in the area.

After the assessment and continued follow-up, the Railway Board approved the experimental stoppage of the Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express at Manoharpur on August 27, 2026. The board has directed that the stoppage be introduced from a convenient date.

The decision is expected to improve long-distance connectivity for Manoharpur and adjoining areas of West Singhbhum. Apart from making travel more convenient, improved rail access could support movement related to the region's industrial and commercial activities.

Dr Verma thanked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Railway Board for approving the demand. He said the issue had been repeatedly raised keeping in mind the difficulties faced by passengers and the need for better connectivity in the region.

He said improving public amenities and taking up development-related issues concerning Jharkhand with the Centre would continue to remain among his priorities.

Residents of Manoharpur and West Singhbhum have welcomed the Railway Board's decision, describing the new stoppage as an important development for the region. The actual benefit to passengers, however, will depend on the date from which the halt is introduced and the final timings notified by the Railways.

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