Why the Diversions Are Happening
The primary reason for these route changes is major engineering work scheduled by West Central Railway. Specifically, the project involves yard remodelling at the Bina and Agasod stations. This is part of a larger effort to connect a third railway line
between Bina and Agasod, a crucial step for improving the network's capacity. To carry out this work safely, railway authorities are conducting pre-non-interlocking and non-interlocking activities, which require temporarily diverting traffic from the main lines. These upgrades are designed to enhance operational efficiency, handle increasing rail traffic, and ultimately improve the punctuality and reliability of train services in the long run.
Dates and Duration of Disruption
The diversions are not for the entire month but are scheduled on specific dates for each train service. The overall period of work, including preliminary stages, runs from early September through mid-October 2026. The most significant impact on the 17 listed trains will be felt on various dates between October 1 and October 15, 2026. Passengers are strongly advised to check the exact dates applicable to their specific train, as the diversions vary from a single day to the full 15-day period for certain services.
List of Affected Trains and New Routes
Seventeen long-distance express trains will be rerouted during this period. The alternate paths often involve major junctions like Itarsi, Jabalpur, Katni South, Guna, and Kota. Here is a summary of the key changes. Train No. 14813/14814 (Jodhpur-Bhopal Express): This service will be diverted via Kota, Nagda, and Sant Hirdaram Nagar from October 1 to October 14 (for the Jodhpur-Bhopal train) and October 1 to 15 (for the Bhopal-Jodhpur train). Train No. 12185/12186 (Rewanchal Express): Between October 8 and 14, these trains connecting Rewa and Rani Kamalapati will run via Katni, Jabalpur, and Itarsi. Train No. 11703/11704 (Rewa-Dr Ambedkar Nagar Express): On October 8, 11, and 13 (from Rewa) and October 9, 12, and 14 (from Dr Ambedkar Nagar), this train will be diverted via Bina Malkhedi, Guna, and Maksi. Train No. 11465/11466 (Jabalpur-Veraval Express): This service will be rerouted via Itarsi and Bhopal on specific dates in October. Train No. 22165/22166 (Bhopal-Singrauli Express): On October 10, 13, and 14 (from Bhopal) and October 9 and 13 (from Singrauli), this train will use an alternate route via Itarsi, Jabalpur, and Katni South. Train No. 13025/13026 (Howrah-Bhopal Express): This weekly express will run via New Katni Junction, Katni South, Jabalpur, and Itarsi on October 12 (from Howrah) and October 14 (from Bhopal). * Other Affected Services: The list also includes the Bhopal-Dhanbad Tri-Weekly Express (11631/11632) and the Bhopal-Chopan Weekly Express (11633/11634), which will also be diverted through the Itarsi-Jabalpur route on selected dates.
What This Means for Passengers
For travelers, these diversions will likely result in longer journey times. Since the trains are taking alternate routes, the total distance covered may increase, leading to potential delays in arrival at the destination. Furthermore, trains will skip their usual stops along the original route, including the busy Bina station. Passengers who have booked tickets to or from stations that are now being skipped will be most affected. It is crucial to verify your train's new route to understand which stations it will now pass through and which ones it will miss.
How to Stay Updated
Indian Railways strongly advises all passengers to check the status of their train before starting their journey. You can get the latest information on cancellations, diversions, and schedules through several official channels. The railway helpline number, 139, provides 24/7 information. You can also check the live running status and any updates on the official Indian Railways website, www.enquiry.indianrail.gov.in, or through the NTES (National Train Enquiry System) app. Checking these resources will ensure you have the most current information and can make alternative arrangements if needed.
