Guwahati: Indian Railways has approved six major new railway line projects under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), marking a significant boost to rail infrastructure and connectivity in North Bengal and the Northeast. The Railway Board’s decision allows immediate execution, reflecting the government’s focus on infrastructure-led development and regional integration.
The approved projects include Raiganj–Itahar (22.16 km) and Gazole–Itahar (27.20 km) lines, with estimated costs of Rs 129.34 crore and Rs 85.59 crore respectively. These lines will enhance connectivity in northern and southern Dinajpur districts, improving passenger and freight movement toward the Northeast. Another key project, Itahar–Buniadpur (27.095 km), costing Rs 287.94 crore, will connect five stations, facilitating access to rural and semi-urban areas and supporting regional economic growth.
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The Chalsa–Naxal (19.85 km) line, estimated at Rs 292.92 crore, will strengthen connectivity in the Dooars region, while the Rajabhatkhawa–Jainti (15.13 km) line, costing Rs 180.16 crore, will pass through the Buxa Tiger Reserve with an emphasis on sustainable construction. The sixth project, Raiganj–Dalkhola (43.43 km), with an estimated cost of Rs 291.53 crore, will create a more efficient rail link, reducing travel time and boosting freight and passenger services.
With these approvals, NFR reinforces its commitment to expanding railway infrastructure, improving connectivity, and promoting balanced socio-economic development across the Northeast and North Bengal.
