Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw has called on the West Bengal government to provide active support for the completion of multiple railway infrastructure projects in the state, highlighting land availability and timely approvals as key enablers for progress.
Addressing officials and stakeholders during events in West Bengal, Vaishnaw underscored that several ongoing railway works have been delayed due to the non-availability of land and the absence of requisite permissions from local authorities. He reiterated that cooperation from the state administration is essential to accelerate project execution and realise benefits for the region’s commuters and economy.
Vaishnaw noted that West Bengal has been allocated ₹14,205 crore in the Railway Budget for FY2026-27 for infrastructure and safety enhancements, reflecting the Centre’s focus on bolstering rail connectivity in the state. He said that railway projects worth around ₹92,974 crore are currently underway in West Bengal, covering track creation, station redevelopment, capacity expansion and safety improvements.
The minister pointed out that while a number of key initiatives are in progress, their timely delivery depends on coordinated action at the state level, particularly in areas such as land acquisition and clearances. He emphasised that improved rail infrastructure would not only enhance mobility for passengers but also contribute to broader economic growth by supporting freight movement and regional development.
Vaishnaw also highlighted recent achievements in the state, including the inauguration of two road overbridges in Asansol and the launch of a new train service connecting Asansol with Bokaro Steel City. These projects aim to ease congestion, reduce transit delays and strengthen connectivity between important industrial and urban centres.
He noted that connectivity improvements have already resulted in the introduction of more than a dozen new train services in West Bengal, and stressed that continued state-Centre collaboration is critical to maintaining the pace of development.
Vaishnaw appealed to the state government to work in tandem with the railway ministry, saying that synergised efforts would help fast-track stalled projects and unlock the full potential of the significant investments earmarked for the rail sector in West Bengal.
