Patna:The Union ministry of railways has approved the doubling of the Thakurganj–Siliguri rail section under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), paving the way for the construction of a second rail line on the route.
The project will cover a stretch of approximately 56.41km and has received an estimated investment of Rs. 916.18 crore from the central government. Railway officials said the additional line is expected to increase network capacity and support smoother train operations.
Focus on network capacity and connectivity
According to an order issued by the Railway Board, the project is intended to strengthen the rail network, improve operational efficiency and enhance connectivity with the northeastern region.
Officials said the doubling of the line is expected to reduce operational bottlenecks on the route and improve the movement of passenger and freight trains.
Railway Board issues approval
The approval letter has been issued by Deepak Singh, director (Gati Shakti) at the Railway Board, to the Northeast Frontier Railway headquarters in Maligaon.
Following the approval, the process for implementing the project is expected to move forward in accordance with railway procedures.
Project cost breakdown
As per the sanctioned estimate, the total project cost has been fixed at Rs. 916.18 crore.
Of this, Rs. 671.55 crore has been allocated for civil works. A further Rs. 149.69 crore has been earmarked under other expenditure heads, while Rs. 94.94 crore will be spent on electrical works, traction distribution (TRD) and generator-related infrastructure.
Railway authorities are expected to complete the required formalities before construction work begins.
