The Ministry of Railways has officially approved the Final Location Survey for the new rail line between Siuri and Nala. This decision came in the last week of January 2026 to boost connectivity between West Bengal and Jharkhand. This project covers a distance of about 73 kilometers and connects vital locations that were previously dependent on road transport. The Eastern Railway zone has received the mandate to execute this survey.
Which stations and areas will benefit from this line?
The proposed route starts from Siuri in Birbhum district, West Bengal, and ends at Nala in Jamtara district, Jharkhand. This new link serves as a crucial connection for the region. A major highlight of this project is the connectivity to Bakreshwar Dham, a famous pilgrimage site.
Devotees visiting the temple will find travel much easier once the line is operational. The route also includes Rajnagar, bringing the railway network to areas that currently rely entirely on buses and private vehicles. This development helps local trade, especially for the coal and agriculture sectors in the two states.
What is the estimated cost and next step?
The survey was sanctioned on January 28, 2026. While the exact construction cost depends on the final report, estimates suggest the budget will range between ₹1500 crore and ₹2000 crore. The immediate next step is the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) by the railway authorities.
Land acquisition processes usually begin after the DPR is finalized and approved. The project aligns with the focus on regional connectivity seen after the 2026 Budget. Once the survey and tender processes are complete, the physical construction of the track will commence.