Located in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, this junction lies under the Northern Railway’s Lucknow division and is now officially named Maa Belha Devi Dham Pratapgarh Junction (station code MBDP).
Strategic Importance & Basics
1. The station serves the city of Bela Pratapgarh and lies on two major routes: Varanasi–Rae Bareli–Lucknow and Ayodhya–Sultanpur–Prayatagraj.
2. It was originally built in 1864 and electrified by 2018. It handles approximately 40,000 passengers daily and operates with five platforms and nine tracks.
3. Features include auto stands, parking, bicycle stands, Wi‑Fi, waiting rooms, clean drinking water, and solar-powered lighting.
Major Renovations & New Facilities
In a significant upgrade plan worth ₹8.75 crore, Indian Railways has been working on:
a. Upgrading the circulation area, resurfacing platforms, extending and raising platform levels.
b. Renovating waiting rooms, toilets, and foot-over bridges.
c. Installing solar panels and LED lighting to improve safety and sustainability.
Rail Expansion: Doubled Track Trial
A new double rail track between Pratapgarh and Gaura was recently tested at speeds up to 120 km/h. This trial was overseen by Northern Railway officials, including DRM and the Chief Safety Commissioner, aiming to enhance train speed and capacity on the Lucknow–Varanasi route.
Safety Challenges: Recent Accidents
a. On October 29, 2024, two coaches of a passenger train derailed during a shunting maneuver near the Jail Road crossing adjacent to the junction. The crossing remained closed for six hours, causing substantial inconvenience.
b. On July 30, 2025, the Janata Express struck a buffalo in the Pratapgarh district. The impact trapped the animal in the wheels and disrupted rail traffic for about one hour. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and rail safety protocols.
Train Services & Connectivity
a. An important service, the Udyognagri Express (train numbers 12173/74), runs bi‑weekly between Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak Terminus and Pratapgarh, connecting Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
b. The station remains a key stop for long-distance and regional trains, with updates to routes due to ongoing infrastructure works. In March 2025, several trains were rerouted or their halts temporarily suspended due to platform construction and upgrades at nearby stations like Maa Barahi Devi Dham (Dandupur) and Gaura.
Station Renaming: Religious Reverence
Under a government initiative reflecting local heritage, several stations in Pratapgarh district were renamed:
1. Pratapgarh Junction → Maa Belha Devi Dham Pratapgarh Junction (MBDP)
2. Antu Station → Maa Chandrika Devi Dham Antu (MCDA)
3. Bishnathganj Station → Shanidev Dham Bishnathganj (SBTJ)
The renaming honors nearby temples and religious sites, and was approved by the Railway and Home Ministries in October 2023 following petitions by local MPs.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pratapgarh, UP |
| New Name | Maa Belha Devi Dham Pratapgarh Junction (MBDP) |
| Platforms/Tracks | 5 platforms, 9 tracks |
| Passenger Flow | ~40,000 per day |
| Facilities | Wi‑Fi, waiting rooms, solar lighting, parking |
| Upgrades | Renovated platforms, overhead bridge, toilets |
| Expansion | Doubling of track operational |
| Recent Events | Coach derailment, animal collision |
| Train Connectivity | Udyognagri Express, other regional trains |
| Renamed Surrounding Stations | Antu, Bishnathganj, Dandupur |
Pratapgarh Junction is more than just a transit point—it’s evolving into a modern rail hub with upgraded infrastructure, better safety, and enhanced passenger amenities. Yet, recent derailments and animal-related disruptions raise concerns about operational safety and track maintenance. As upgrades and sports-new lane expansions continue, the station is expected to handle increased traffic and support regional connectivity more effectively.
