Railway Board Approves ₹396 Crore for Doubling Ranaghat–Bongaon Tracks

Main Article
Wed, Oct 08, 12:36 AM IST

The Railway Board has sanctioned ₹396.04 crore for the doubling of the 32 km Ranaghat–Bongaon railway line under the Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway.

 

The long-awaited project aims to decongest one of the busiest suburban and freight routes, improve cross-border trade with Bangladesh, and enhance regional connectivity across Nadia and North 24-Parganas districts.

 

Key Highlights

 

  • Project Cost: ₹396.04 crore
  • Route Length: 32 km
  • Additional Trains: 10 per direction daily
  • Extra Freight Capacity: 0.88 million tonnes per annum
  • Estimated Additional Earning: ₹8.66 crore annually
  • Infrastructure Additions: Two Limited Height Subways (LHS) between Ranaghat–Majhergram and Majhergram–Gopalnagar

 

Why It Matters

 

The Ranaghat–Bongaon stretch is a vital corridor connecting Sealdah and Petrapole, facilitating both suburban commuters and freight transport toward the India–Bangladesh border. Currently, the single-line section operates at 114% capacity utilisation, leading to frequent delays. The doubling will eliminate crossing detentions and ensure smoother, faster train operations.

 

According to Eastern Railway officials, this initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing socio-economic growth, easing logistics, and providing better connectivity for both passengers and traders.

 

Recently, AC EMU local trains were introduced between Ranaghat and Sealdah via Bongaon, improving passenger convenience. The doubling project will build on this progress by expanding operational capacity.

 

Public Response and Future Outlook

 

Passenger associations have welcomed the sanction but have also urged authorities to expedite the pending third line project between Naihati and Ranaghat, which remains delayed due to encroachments. With the recent restoration of the Nasipur bridge and the introduction of new express trains to North Bengal and the Northeast, the demand for improved infrastructure has only intensified.

 

Once completed, the Ranaghat–Bongaon doubling project is expected to transform the travel and trade dynamics of Bengal’s border belt, supporting both local commuters and national connectivity goals.