Railway Minister Sanctions Three Key Projects to Enhance Rail Connectivity in West Bengal
Significant infrastructure investments aim to bolster regional connectivity and capacity in West Bengal’s rail network
In a strategic move to strengthen rail infrastructure and improve passenger and freight connectivity in West Bengal, the Ministry of Railways has approved three major projects. These initiatives, sanctioned under the leadership of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, are set to enhance operational efficiency and expand service offerings across the state’s critical rail corridors.
The approval follows detailed consultations between the Ministry and the West Bengal state government, reflecting a collaborative approach to regional transportation development. The projects encompass track doubling, new train services, and preparatory work for additional rail lines, collectively aimed at addressing capacity constraints and fostering economic growth through improved mobility.
One of the cornerstone projects is the doubling of the New Jalpaiguri–Siliguri railway line. This route is a vital link in the northeastern railway network, facilitating passenger movement and freight transit to and from the northeastern states. Doubling the track will significantly increase line capacity, reduce congestion, and improve punctuality of services on this busy corridor.
In addition to track enhancement, the Ministry has commissioned the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Salboni–Adra third line project. The introduction of a third line in this segment is expected to augment the existing infrastructure, enabling smoother operations and accommodating higher traffic volumes. This development is particularly important for freight corridors, as the region serves as a key junction for mineral and industrial freight movements.
Complementing these infrastructure upgrades, a new express train service between Kolkata and Jaipur has been sanctioned. Operating as train numbers 18061/18062, the Kolkata–Jaipur Express will run via Kharagpur, connecting Santragachi in West Bengal to Khatipura near Jaipur. This service is poised to enhance inter-state connectivity, offering passengers a direct and efficient travel option between eastern and northwestern India.
These projects align with the broader objectives outlined in the Union Budget 2026-27, which allocated Rs 14,205 crore specifically for railway infrastructure development in West Bengal. This substantial investment underscores the central government’s commitment to upgrading the state’s rail network, facilitating economic integration, and supporting regional development.
Further augmenting local connectivity, Eastern Railway has introduced a new EMU local train service between Berhampore Court and Lalgola, effective from May 18, 2026. This service complements the extension of the existing Krishnapur–Cossimbazar local train, now extended up to Lalgola. These enhancements in suburban rail services are expected to improve daily commuting options for passengers in the Sealdah Division, supporting urban and semi-urban mobility needs.
Earlier in the year, Indian Railways also approved multiple infrastructure projects worth Rs 895.30 crore in West Bengal aimed at boosting line capacity and improving freight operations. These projects collectively contribute to the modernization and expansion of the rail network, ensuring that it meets the growing demands of passenger and goods traffic in the region.
The sanctioned projects reflect Indian Railways’ ongoing focus on capacity augmentation, service expansion, and network modernization. By addressing critical bottlenecks and introducing new services, these initiatives are expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce travel times, and support economic activities across West Bengal and beyond.
Overall, the Ministry’s proactive approach in sanctioning these projects demonstrates a commitment to leveraging rail infrastructure as a catalyst for regional development, improved connectivity, and sustainable transportation growth in eastern India.
