West Bengal has received a significant boost in railway infrastructure with an allocation exceeding ₹14,000 crore in the Union Budget. This funding aims to strengthen rail networks, improve safety, and enhance regional connectivity across the state and its neighboring areas. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that this allocation is more than three times the average annual railway funding between 2009 and 2014, highlighting a renewed focus on eastern India’s rail development.
Currently, railway projects valued at nearly ₹92,000 crore are in progress in West Bengal. These initiatives are designed for long-term infrastructure development and capacity expansion. The goal is to modernize the rail network, increase operational safety, and foster economic growth through improved connectivity.
A new Asansol–Bokaro Steel City MEMU passenger service has been introduced. This service strengthens connections between important industrial centers in West Bengal and Jharkhand. It passes through the districts of Paschim Bardhaman and Purulia. The service is expected to benefit industrial workers, daily commuters, and local residents.
The first Vande Bharat Sleeper service originating from West Bengal has also been launched. This positions the state prominently within India’s next-generation rail network. These developments align with the Centre’s ‘Purvoday’ vision. This vision focuses on accelerating development across eastern India.
West Bengal’s first bullet train project is proposed to originate from Siliguri. This project will significantly enhance long-distance high-speed connectivity in the region. Additionally, plans are in place for an East–West Dedicated Freight Corridor. This corridor will connect West Bengal with Gujarat. It aims to boost freight efficiency and industrial logistics.
A notable proposal includes an underground rail corridor in the Chicken’s Neck region of North Bengal. This area is strategically sensitive. The project is intended to ensure secure and uninterrupted transportation. It will also strengthen connectivity to the northeastern states.
The enhanced budgetary support signifies a long-term commitment to transforming West Bengal. The state is being positioned as a major rail and logistics hub. Investments are being made across high-speed rail, freight corridors, commuter services, and strategic infrastructure. West Bengal is set to play a central role in India’s evolving railway landscape and regional development strategy.
Announcing the allocation, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the funding represents more than three times the average annual railway allocation between 2009 and 2014, underscoring the Centre’s intensified focus on eastern India’s rail development.
According to the Railway Minister, railway projects worth nearly ₹92,000 crore are currently underway in West Bengal, aimed at long-term infrastructure creation and capacity enhancement.
The minister highlighted the launch of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper service originating from West Bengal, positioning the state prominently within India’s next-generation rail network.
The Budget also outlines West Bengal’s first bullet train project, proposed to originate from Siliguri, significantly enhancing long-distance high-speed connectivity in the region.
Another notable proposal is an underground rail corridor in the Chicken’s Neck region of North Bengal, a strategically sensitive area.
Overall, the enhanced budgetary support reflects a long-term commitment to transforming West Bengal into a major rail and logistics hub.
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