Kolkata, 2 October 2024: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, visited Kolkata on Gandhi Jayanti to inaugurate several key rail projects and participate in the “Swachchta Hi Seva” cleanliness campaign.
Sealdah Station Upgrades
At Sealdah Railway Station, the Minister dedicated the extension of five platforms (1 to 5) to accommodate 12-coach EMU local trains, enhancing the station’s capacity. With this upgrade, an additional 3 lakh passengers can travel daily, making commuting easier for suburban passengers.
Shri Vaishnaw also opened a new Rail Coach Restaurant at Sealdah Station, offering passengers a railway-themed dining experience. Additionally, he inaugurated an exhibition of old movie posters featuring iconic films shot on Indian Railways and visited a One Station One Product (OSOP) stall, promoting local crafts.
New Rail Services and Nashipur Bridge
The Minister inaugurated new train services, including the Sealdah-Ranaghat EMU, Azimganj-Cossimbazar MEMU, and Krishnanagar-Azimganj passenger train. A new express train, the Radhikapur–Anand Vihar Terminal Express, was also flagged off, providing a direct rail link between Radhikapur in West Bengal and Delhi.
Shri Vaishnaw further inaugurated the Nashipur Railway Bridge in Murshidabad, which now connects both sides of the Bhagirathi River, fulfilling a long-standing demand of local residents.
Kolkata Metro Expansion and Vande Bharat Trains
The Minister highlighted the significant expansion of the Kolkata Metro network. Between 1972 and 2014, only 28 km of track was developed, but between 2014 and 2024, an additional 38 km was built. He also noted the introduction of 9 Vande Bharat Express trains in West Bengal, improving high-speed rail connectivity in the region.
Call for Cooperation on Railway Projects
Shri Vaishnaw emphasized the Union Government’s commitment to railway development in West Bengal but urged the State Government to cooperate in resolving land issues. He revealed that 61 railway projects are pending due to land acquisition challenges, and the Union Government is ready to invest once these issues are addressed.
Other dignitaries present included Shri Sukanta Majumdar, Minister of State for Education, and several Members of Parliament and local leaders.
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