Archive · 20 Jul 2026
17-km Rail Link Approved for North Bengal
The Indian government has approved the construction of a 17-km railway line in North Bengal, costing Rs 272 crore.
This line will connect Khunia More near Chalsa to Jaldhaka, passing through forest areas and the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
The project aims to improve connectivity in the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction region, boost tourism, and enhance national security.
However, it also raises environmental concerns due to its passage through ecologically sensitive areas.
Surveys will begin after the monsoon, and forest and wildlife clearances are mandatory before construction can start.
The Ministry of Railways has sanctioned Rs 272 crore for a 17-km strategic railway line to Jaldhaka in North Bengal.
The project aims to strengthen connectivity in the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction region and boost tourism in the Dooars.
The railway line will originate from Khunia More near Chalsa and pass through forest areas and the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
A joint survey with the West Bengal Forest Department will begin after the monsoon, and forest and wildlife clearances are mandatory.
The project is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate tourism, and strengthen strategic infrastructure in the region.
- Who
- Ministry of Railways, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, Jalpaiguri MP Dr Jayanta Roy
- What
- Sanctioning of a 17-km strategic railway line to Jaldhaka
- When
- After the monsoon
- Where
- North Bengal, India
- Why
- To strengthen connectivity, boost tourism, and enhance national security in the tri-junction region
Proponents of the Project
Environmental Concerns
Development and Security
Proponents of the Project
The project will improve connectivity, boost tourism, and enhance national security in the strategically important tri-junction region.
Environmental Concerns
The construction may disrupt ecologically sensitive areas, including the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, requiring careful environmental impact assessments.
- Project Cost
- Rs 272 crore
- Length of Rail Link
- 17 km
- Starting Point
- Khunia More near Chalsa
- Ending Point
- Jaldhaka
- Strategic Importance
- India-China-Bhutan tri-junction region
- Tourism Potential
- Jaldhaka-Bindu-Todey Tangta belt
- Survey Timing
- After the monsoon
- Ecological Sensitivity
- Passes through Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary