West Bengal is set to witness a significant upgrade in rail and transport infrastructure with the inauguration of key projects and the launch of a new passenger train service, aimed at improving safety, regional connectivity, and economic integration.
Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Saturday inaugurated the Siuri Road Over Bridge (ROB), dedicated the Kumarpur Road Over Bridge to the nation, and flagged off the Asansol–Bokaro Steel City MEMU passenger train through video conferencing.
Addressing the event, the Union Minister stated that these initiatives mark a major step toward strengthening rail infrastructure in West Bengal and adjoining regions. He highlighted that a record budget allocation of ₹14,205 crore has been earmarked for railway projects in West Bengal this year—more than three times the average allocation during the 2009–2014 period. Ongoing railway projects in the state are collectively valued at approximately ₹92,000 crore, signalling large-scale infrastructure transformation.
The Minister also referred to recent connectivity initiatives, including the launch of more than a dozen new trains for the state. Notably, West Bengal became the starting point for the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train, reflecting the broader Purvoday vision for eastern India’s development. Future plans include the announcement of a bullet train originating from Siliguri, approval of an East–West freight corridor connecting West Bengal with Gujarat, and a proposed underground rail corridor at the Chicken’s Neck region in North Bengal to enhance strategic and secure transportation.
Road Over Bridges to Ease Urban Congestion
The Siuri Road Over Bridge, constructed at a cost of ₹42 crore, replaces Level Crossing No. 22B/T near Siuri Railway Station. The project is expected to eliminate long waiting times at the crossing, enhance commuter safety, reduce congestion around the station area, and ensure uninterrupted movement of emergency vehicles.
Similarly, the Kumarpur Road Over Bridge, built at a cost of ₹55 crore, replaces Level Crossing No. 1Spl/E between Barachak and Hirapur Yard Line. Located along the critical GT Road corridor, the bridge serves as a vital link between Asansol city, Paschim Bardhaman district, and neighbouring Jharkhand. It is expected to significantly improve trade movement, inter-state connectivity, and daily commuting efficiency.
New Asansol–Bokaro MEMU Train Service
On the same occasion, the Asansol–Bokaro Steel City MEMU passenger service (63592/63591) was flagged off. The regular service will commence from 10 February 2026, strengthening rail connectivity between two major steel-producing regions. Running through Paschim Bardhaman and Purulia districts of West Bengal and Bokaro district of Jharkhand, the train is expected to benefit industrial workers, daily commuters, and local residents while supporting regional economic and social integration.
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