The Indian government has given approval for a fourth railway track through the vital Siliguri Corridor, known as the Chicken’s Neck. This was announced by Northeast Frontier Railway General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava on Wednesday evening. The Malda-New Jalpaiguri section serves as an essential connection between the Northeast and the rest of India.
At a media briefing, Shrivastava noted that the railways are focusing on capacity expansion in this area due to its strategic value. He mentioned an additional nearly 29-kilometer double-line underground project between Tinmai Ghat and Bagdogra as another significant development.
Previously, a third line was suggested for the section, but now a fourth line has also been approved. The underground project adds to the key infrastructure efforts.
The Chicken’s Neck refers to a slim land corridor in northern Bengal, roughly 20-22 km wide and about 60 km in length, linking northeastern states to the rest of the country.
Once completed, these initiatives will transform the rail corridor substantially and promote organized regional growth. Work on line doubling in the Barsoi section continues, with expansions in the Katihar division to handle increased passenger and freight demands.
In the past year, 42 new trains were launched on various routes, and about 250 new stops were added for better passenger service. Redevelopment of New Jalpaiguri station is progressing and set for completion by April 2027.
Plans include starting new local train services from Jogbani, Radhikapur, and Balurghat to enhance links in border and remote zones. Full electrification of the NFR network is done, with efforts to extend electric operations.
Vande Bharat services may be extended from Guwahati to Tinsukia and Agartala in both directions for quicker, comfortable travel in the Northeast.
