India’s railway network is set to witness another round of infrastructure development as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to launch several key railway projects during his visit to West Bengal on March 14. These projects are part of the central government’s broader strategy to modernise Indian Railways, expand connectivity and improve passenger facilities across the country. The visit will include the inauguration of redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the launch of a new long-distance train connecting West Bengal with the national capital region and the dedication of important rail infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety. Railway officials say that the initiatives will benefit millions of passengers by improving travel convenience and reducing congestion on busy routes. The projects are also expected to contribute to economic growth in eastern India by strengthening transportation links between states.
New Express Train to Strengthen East–North Connectivity
One of the most important highlights of the Prime Minister’s visit will be the launch of the Purulia–Anand Vihar Terminal Express. The new train service will provide direct connectivity between Purulia in West Bengal and Delhi’s Anand Vihar Terminal for the first time. For many residents of Purulia and surrounding districts, travelling to the national capital has traditionally required multiple train changes, increasing travel time and inconvenience. The introduction of this direct service will significantly simplify travel for passengers and provide faster access to northern India. The train is expected to benefit a large number of passengers including migrant workers, students and business travellers who frequently travel between eastern and northern regions of the country. Migrant workers from eastern states often travel to cities in northern India for employment opportunities, and improved rail connectivity will make such journeys easier and more efficient. Students studying in universities and educational institutions in northern India will also gain a reliable travel option connecting their hometowns with academic centres. Tourism may also benefit from improved rail connectivity as easier travel encourages more visitors to explore different regions of the country. According to railway officials, better transportation links can play a significant role in promoting economic development by facilitating movement of goods and people across regions. The new express service therefore represents not only a transportation improvement but also a step toward stronger regional integration within the country.
Station Redevelopment Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Another major component of the Prime Minister’s visit will be the inauguration of six redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The stations include Kamakhyaguri, Tamluk, Haldia, Barabhum, Anara and Siuri. These stations have undergone extensive modernisation aimed at improving passenger comfort and convenience. The redevelopment projects focus on upgrading infrastructure while maintaining the cultural identity of each station. Improved waiting halls, enhanced lighting systems and modern digital passenger information displays have been installed to help travellers access real-time train information. Accessibility has also been prioritised during redevelopment. Facilities such as lifts, escalators and improved entry and exit points have been created to assist elderly passengers and persons with disabilities. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a nationwide initiative launched by the government to transform railway stations into modern transport hubs. The programme aims not only to improve passenger amenities but also to integrate stations with urban development plans and local economic activities. Redeveloped stations often attract commercial establishments such as retail outlets, food courts and service facilities that contribute to local economic growth. Railway authorities believe that modernised stations can become important urban landmarks while improving the overall travel experience for passengers. The redevelopment work in West Bengal is part of a larger national programme under which hundreds of railway stations across India are being upgraded.
Infrastructure Expansion and Safety Improvements
In addition to launching new train services and redeveloped stations, the Prime Minister will also dedicate several infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving railway capacity and safety. One of the key projects is the commissioning of the third railway line between Belda and Dantan covering approximately 16 kilometres. The additional track will help reduce congestion on the existing railway corridor and enable smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains. Expanding track capacity is essential for accommodating the growing volume of rail traffic in India. Another important development is the commissioning of the Automatic Block Signalling system between Kalaikunda and Kanimohuli. This advanced signalling technology enhances operational safety by maintaining safe distances between trains and allowing trains to operate at shorter intervals. As a result, more trains can run on the same route without compromising safety standards. Indian Railways has been steadily adopting modern signalling technologies to improve efficiency and reliability of train operations. Railway officials say that West Bengal has experienced significant railway infrastructure growth in recent years. Since 2014 nearly 1400 kilometres of new railway tracks have been laid in the state. The railway network in West Bengal has also achieved complete electrification, enabling faster and more energy-efficient train operations. Electrified rail routes reduce dependence on diesel locomotives and contribute to environmental sustainability. In addition to track expansion and electrification, more than 500 rail flyovers and underpasses have been constructed across the state to eliminate level crossings and improve road and rail safety. Another major technological initiative being implemented is the Kavach Automatic Train Protection system. This indigenous safety system automatically controls train speed and can stop trains when necessary to prevent collisions. Currently the system has been deployed across about 105 route kilometres in West Bengal, with plans to expand its coverage further in the future. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is also progressing rapidly in the state. A total of 101 railway stations in West Bengal are being redeveloped under the scheme at an estimated cost of around ₹3600 crore. Nine stations have already been completed and work on the remaining stations is progressing steadily. Overall railway projects worth approximately ₹93000 crore are currently under implementation in the state. These projects include construction of new railway lines, station redevelopment, signalling upgrades and track expansion initiatives. West Bengal holds strategic importance in India’s railway network because it serves as a major transit corridor connecting the northeastern states with the rest of the country. Strengthening rail infrastructure in the state therefore improves connectivity not only for local passengers but also for travellers and freight operators across eastern and northeastern India. Improved rail infrastructure is also expected to encourage industrial growth, support tourism and create employment opportunities in the region. Experts believe that such infrastructure investments will have long-term economic benefits by enhancing logistics networks and facilitating faster transportation of goods and passengers across regions.
