West Bengal is set to receive a series of railway infrastructure projects after the Central Government approved 61 railway schemes for the state. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the approved projects include metro network expansion, new railway stations, freight corridors and a proposed bullet train project.
According to the Ministry of Railways, investments of nearly ₹1 lakh crore have been planned to modernise the railway network in West Bengal. The projects are aimed at improving passenger amenities, accelerating freight movement and providing better rail connectivity across different regions of the state.
A large number of railway infrastructure projects have been approved under the plan and will be implemented in phases. Hundreds of flyovers and underpasses will also be constructed to address railway crossing-related issues.
The expansion of the Kolkata Metro network is a key component of the master plan. New metro rakes are planned to be introduced over the coming years to improve services and enhance passenger convenience.
More than 100 railway stations in the state will also be redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The stations will be equipped with modern facilities, improved passenger services and upgraded infrastructure.
One of the proposals announced under the plan is the introduction of a bullet train service connecting Delhi and Siliguri. The proposed high-speed rail corridor is expected to connect major cities in northern and eastern India and extend into West Bengal.
If implemented as planned, the project is expected to reduce long-distance travel time. The plan also includes the introduction of new train services to strengthen regional and interstate connectivity.
The Ministry of Railways has also announced a dedicated East-West Freight Corridor connecting Dankuni in West Bengal with Surat in Gujarat. The corridor is intended to make freight transportation faster and more efficient.
According to experts, the project could benefit industrial regions in West Bengal. Improved freight transport infrastructure is expected to reduce logistics costs and support commercial activity.
Efforts are also being focused on simplifying land acquisition and administrative procedures to ensure timely completion of the projects. Officials have been directed to coordinate with the Railway Board and expedite the required processes.
The Ministry of Railways stated that the projects are expected to improve railway connectivity, passenger facilities and economic activity in West Bengal. The planned metro expansion, station redevelopment, high-speed rail proposal and freight corridor form part of the broader railway infrastructure development programme for the state.
