The Indian government has officially approved the construction of a fourth railway line along the vital Malda-New Jalpaiguri section. This major infrastructure push is designed to bolster the connectivity of the ‘Chicken Neck’ corridor, ensuring seamless logistics and enhanced national security between the northeastern states and the rest of the country. Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava confirmed the development, highlighting its role in long-term regional connectivity.
- Fourth railway line approved for the Malda-New Jalpaiguri section.
- New 29-km underground double-line project between Tinmai Ghat and Bagdogra.
- New 24.40-km broad-gauge line connecting Thakurganj to the New Jalpaiguri main line.
- 100% electrification achieved across the entire NFR network.
- New Jalpaiguri station redevelopment expected to finish by April 2027.
Expanding Infrastructure and Connectivity
Beyond the fourth line, the NFR is aggressively fast-tracking several key projects to decongest the network. Among these is a significant 29-km underground double-line railway connecting Tinmai Ghat and Bagdogra, alongside a 24.40-km broad-gauge line linking Thakurganj to the main New Jalpaiguri line. These additions are critical for handling the increasing traffic demands in the region. Furthermore, the railway is actively working on the double-tracking of the Barsoi section to ensure smoother train operations.
Upgraded Passenger Services and Modernization
The NFR is also prioritizing passenger experience and regional transit. Plans are in place to extend Vande Bharat Express services from Guwahati to Tinsukia and Agartala, bringing premium travel options to more destinations in the Northeast. To improve accessibility in remote border areas, the railways will introduce new local train services from Jogbani, Radhikapur, and Balurghat. With the New Jalpaiguri station redevelopment slated for completion by April 2027 and the entire network now 100% electrified, these initiatives mark a new era for railway infrastructure in the eastern and northeastern parts of India.