DIMAPUR — The Union Cabinet has approved the third and fourth railway line between Aluabari Road and New Jalpaiguri, marking a significant milestone in enhancing rail connectivity in the North-eastern region of India.

Spanning a total length of 57 km under the jurisdiction of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), the project is approved at an estimated cost of approximately INR 1,786 crores, the NFR stated in a press release.

“This project aims to address the growing demand for transportation infrastructure in one of the country’s most vital regions. By introducing additional tracks, it will reduce congestion, allowing for more efficient and faster movement of both passenger and freight trains, thus cutting travel times and improving the overall reliability of services.

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“The increased rail capacity will not only ease the burden on the existing infrastructure but will also facilitate the transportation of goods such as tea, timber and agricultural products, thus boosting the local and regional economy,” it stated.

According to the NFR, the project is part of the Delhi–Guwahati High Density Network route and holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the international borders with Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal, providing vital access to these neighbouring regions.

It passes through districts in Bihar (Kishanganj) and West Bengal (Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling and Uttar Dinajpur), serving as a crucial link for both passenger and freight transport.

The infrastructure development will include seven stations, 99 bridges and the construction of three Road Over Bridges and eight Road Under Bridges.

The project aims to facilitate the movement of 21.6 million tons of additional cargo, leading to a savings of INR 2,551 crore in logistics costs. It will also contribute significantly to fuel conservation by saving 2.14 crore litres of diesel every year, the release stated.

“In the broader context, the Aluabari Road–New Jalpaiguri third and fourth line project is poised to not only strengthen transportation infrastructure but also act as a catalyst for economic growth, regional integration and enhanced quality of life in the Northeast.

“This project will enhance the overall efficiency of the transportation network across Bihar, West Bengal and the Northeast, easing congestion on this crucial corridor that serves as a vital gateway between the eastern and NE region of India. NFR remains committed towards executing this project efficiently, ensuring maximum benefit to the region’s connectivity and development,” the release added.