Indian Railways Approves ₹916.18 Cr for NJP–Siliguri Line Expansion

The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned Rs 916.18 crore for the New Jalpaiguri–Siliguri Rail Line Doubling Project, a key infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing passenger and freight transportation capacity in North Bengal.

The project involves the construction of an additional railway track parallel to the existing line, enabling greater route capacity, improved operational efficiency, and smoother train movement along the corridor. The doubling work will extend the ongoing Alubari Road–Thakurganj rail line expansion up to Siliguri Junction, covering important stations such as Bagdogra, Naxalbari, and Adhikari.

The additional track is expected to alleviate congestion on the heavily trafficked route, where the existing single-line infrastructure often constrains train operations and affects service punctuality. Upon completion, the project will facilitate faster and more reliable movement of passenger and freight trains, support higher train frequencies, and strengthen connectivity across the Siliguri–Terai region and surrounding areas.

The rail line doubling forms part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to modernise transport infrastructure, enhance network capacity, and improve the efficiency of rail-based logistics and passenger services across eastern India. The project is also expected to support regional economic development by strengthening connectivity to key commercial, industrial, and tourism centres in North Bengal.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.