17-km strategic rail link to strengthen border connectivity in north Bengal

The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned around Rs 272 crore for the construction of a 17-km strategic railway line to Jaldhaka, a project aimed at strengthening connectivity in the sensitive India-China-Bhutan tri-junction region while boosting tourism in the Dooars.

Welcoming the approval, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista said the proposed line will originate from Khunia More near Chalsa and pass through the forest areas under the Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong forest divisions before reaching Jaldhaka.

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“The project will significantly improve connectivity to the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction and unlock the tourism potential of the Jaldhaka-Bindu-Todey Tangta belt,” Bista said, describing the route as strategically important from both developmental and national security perspectives.

Railway officials said a joint survey with the West Bengal Forest Department will begin after the monsoon. The proposed alignment falls under the Alipurduar Railway Division and passes through ecologically sensitive areas, including the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, making forest and wildlife clearances mandatory before construction can begin.

According to senior railway officials, the proposed line is expected to serve multiple objectives by improving connectivity to remote border areas, facilitating tourism and strengthening strategic infrastructure in the region.

The project was actively pursued by Jalpaiguri MP Dr Jayanta Roy, who has been pressing for improved railway infrastructure in North Bengal.

Meanwhile, amid demands from a section of people for creation of a separate railway division at New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is currently under the Katihar Division, Dr Roy said he had proposed the establishment of a Zonal Railway Headquarters at NJP to enhance railway administration and operational efficiency in North Bengal.