Major Boost for North Bengal as MP Raju Bista Pushes for High-Speed Rail Connectivity

Siliguri | August 2025
In a promising development for North Bengal’s transport and infrastructure landscape, Member of Parliament from Darjeeling, Shri Raju Bista, has received a positive response from Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw regarding his proposal to introduce the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail system in the region.

In July 2025, Shri Bista had formally submitted a request to the Minister of Railways, advocating for the establishment of high-speed rail connectivity from Siliguri to key areas across North Bengal. The proposed routes aim to decongest road traffic, reduce travel time, and offer a modern, eco-friendly alternative to traditional road transport.
Proposed Routes Under the Namo Bharat Plan:

Siliguri to Malda
via Bagdogra, Naxalbari, Khoribari, Bidhannagar, Chopra, Islampur, Raiganj

Siliguri to Hashimara
via Sevoke, Bagrakote, Oodlabari, Mal Bazar, Chalsa, Nagrakata, Banarhat, Birpara

Future extension from Siliguri to Rangpo
to be considered once the Sevoke–Rangpo Rail Line becomes operational

Railway Minister’s Response

Responding to Shri Bista’s request, Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the expansion of the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail network is being actively considered. In his official communication, he stated:

“Namo Bharat is a new generation regional train introduced in India. First and second rakes have been successfully tested in the field. People have received it well. Now, production will be ramped up. The route from Siliguri to Malda, Siliguri to Hashimara/Kalchini, and Siliguri to Rangpo will be considered once Namo Bharat train production is ramped up.”

This assurance comes as a major boost to the Siliguri and wider North Bengal region, placing it firmly on the roadmap for high-speed rail development in the country.
A Vision for Sustainable, Inclusive Development

Shri Raju Bista expressed his gratitude to the Hon’ble Minister for prioritizing North Bengal in the expansion of India’s advanced rail network. He emphasized the transformative potential of the project:

“The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail system will significantly improve transportation in our region. It will ease pressure on our already congested roads, ensure faster and safer travel, and contribute to the overall economic and social development of Siliguri and nearby areas.”

With the proposed routes touching several key towns and sub-divisions across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and North Dinajpur, the initiative promises to enhance regional integration and mobility for thousands of daily commuters.
Looking Ahead

Once implemented, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will not only connect Siliguri to major towns in North Bengal but also integrate the region more closely with broader national infrastructure. It marks a significant step toward modern, green, and efficient public transportation, aligning with the Government of India’s vision for a future-ready Bharat.

As production of the Namo Bharat trains ramps up, citizens of North Bengal can look forward to a new era of faster, smarter, and cleaner mobility.