Archive · 15 Jan 2026
Railway Projects in Bengal Delayed by Land Issues
The Indian government has been working on improving railway infrastructure in Bengal.
They have built many new railway lines and completed several important projects.
However, some projects are delayed or stuck because of problems with getting land and coordinating with the state government.
The BJP is highlighting these developments ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit, while the Trinamool Congress disputes the BJP's claims.
Meanwhile, traders in Malda are asking for better train services to help with trade and travel.
The average annual railway budget allocation for Bengal has increased more than threefold since 2014.
Several railway projects worth over ₹87,862 crore are currently under execution in Bengal.
Major projects completed include the Mandar Hill–Rampurhat line and the Haldibari line, improving cross-border rail connectivity with Bangladesh.
Many projects face setbacks due to land acquisition hurdles and inadequate coordination from the Trinamool state government.
Traders in Malda are urging for the restoration and introduction of key train services to boost trade and connectivity.
- Who
- The Central Government and the Trinamool Congress state government in Bengal
- What
- Delays in railway projects due to land acquisition issues and coordination problems
- When
- Since 2014, with upcoming projects to be inaugurated on January 17 and 18, 2024
- Where
- Bengal, India, with a focus on Malda and other regions
- Why
- Land acquisition delays and lack of coordination between the state government and the railway ministry
- Annual Railway Budget Allocation (2009–14)
- ₹4,380 crore
- Annual Railway Budget Allocation (Post-2014)
- ₹13,955 crore
- New Railway Lines Constructed (2014–2024)
- 1,362 km
- Total Railway Projects Under Execution
- ₹87,862 crore
- Upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Route
- Kamakhya to Howrah
- Stalled Projects Due to Land Acquisition
- 6 routes
- Partially Completed Projects
- 3 projects
- Malda's Key Train Services Discontinued
- Malda-Burdwan, Malda-Asansol, Malda-Mumbai Special, Malda-Haridwar Special
