West Bengal’s ₹92,000 Crore Rail Investment Drive | 27 Feb 2026

Why in News?

Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated key rail infrastructure works in West Bengal and announced that rail projects worth around ₹92,000 crore are currently under implementation in the state.

Key Points:

• Infrastructure Initiatives: Projects amounting to nearly ₹92,000 crore are underway in West Bengal to strengthen rail infrastructure, enhance safety, and improve connectivity across the region and adjoining areas.
  • The newly inaugurated Siuri Road Over Bridge (cost approx. ₹42 crore) and the Kumarpur Road Over Bridge (cost approx. ₹55 crore) will reduce congestion, improve safety at former level crossings, and facilitate smoother movement for commuters and goods traffic.
  • A new passenger service between Asansol–Bokaro Steel City MEMU was flagged off to boost regional mobility, benefiting daily commuters and industrial workers.
• Record Allocations: West Bengal has received an increased rail budget allocation of ₹14,205 crore, more than triple the average allocation during 2009–14, signalling sustained focus on Eastern rail development.
• Strategic Projects: Railway projects in West Bengal focus on new line expansion, track doubling and electrification, station modernisation, and improving passenger and freight connectivity, particularly in North Bengal and adjoining regions.
• Vision: These initiatives align with the central government’s broader “Purvoday” vision to accelerate infrastructure-led growth and improve economic prospects in eastern India.
• Significance: The investments are expected to transform regional connectivity, support economic activity, and catalyse socio‑economic development in West Bengal and neighbouring regions.