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Indian Railways to Revolutionize North-east Connectivity with Underground Railway Line, Boosting Security and Economic Development

8 February 2026 at 05:25
Indian Railways to Revolutionize North-east Connectivity with Underground Railway Line, Boosting Security and Economic Development

Indian Railways is set to revolutionize North-east connectivity with a groundbreaking underground railway line designed to enhance transportation efficiency and strengthen national security. This ambitious project aims to provide a secure and uninterrupted link between key North-eastern hubs, transforming regional infrastructure. The new underground route will not only streamline the movement of goods and passengers but also ensure strategic connectivity, bolstering defense capabilities and economic growth in one of India’s most vital corridors. With this initiative, Indian Railways is poised to create a more resilient, efficient, and secure transportation network for the region.

The proposed underground railway line will extend over 35.76 kilometers, linking Dumdangi with Bagdogra. An additional stretch of 33.4 kilometers will connect Dumdangi to Rangapani. The line has been designed primarily as an underground route to ensure enhanced security, resilience, and uninterrupted connectivity in this strategically important region. The Siliguri Corridor, due to its narrow width and proximity to international borders with Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, has long been vulnerable to natural disasters, traffic bottlenecks, and security disruptions. The underground alignment of the new railway line aims to mitigate these risks by providing a secure and alternative route.

A key objective of this project is to bolster the nation’s defense infrastructure. The underground railway line will serve as a critical route for the movement of defense personnel, military equipment, and emergency relief materials, particularly during periods of heightened security concerns or natural disasters. By providing a reliable and unobstructed route, the line will contribute to India’s strategic security capabilities in the region. Additionally, the project will improve logistical support for the Indian Army’s 33 Corps stationed in the nearby Bengdubi Army Cantonment, as well as for air-rail coordination at Bagdogra Air Force Station.

The railway line will traverse vital areas, including Darjeeling and Uttar Dinajpur in West Bengal, as well as the Kishanganj district in Bihar. The project promises to enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and improve the overall efficiency of transportation in these areas. This will foster greater economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enable better access to goods and services. As the infrastructure improves, local economies will benefit from reduced transportation costs, increased tourism, and easier access to markets.

In terms of technical specifications, the proposed railway line will incorporate modern engineering practices and advanced technology to ensure its durability and safety. It will be powered by a 2×25 kV AC electrification system, with Automatic Signaling (Standard-IV) and a VOIP-based communication system over fiber-optic cables. The line will also feature robust bridges designed to meet RDSO 25-ton axle load standards, ensuring that it can accommodate heavier cargo and passenger trains. The construction of twin tunnels using Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology will minimize environmental disruption and allow for efficient tunnel construction.

The underground alignment has been meticulously planned to avoid areas prone to landslides and earthquakes, as well as regions vulnerable to political instability or security threats. The project will provide an essential alternative route that remains operational even during natural disasters or other disruptions that may affect surface-level infrastructure. This makes the underground railway line a highly resilient and secure option for ensuring continuous connectivity in the region.

The project’s long-term impact extends beyond the transportation sector. It will help integrate the North-eastern states more effectively with the rest of India, opening up new avenues for trade, tourism, and industrial growth. Moreover, the improved connectivity will facilitate the movement of essential goods and services, such as medical supplies and emergency relief materials, across the region.

By linking key military and civilian hubs through secure and efficient rail transportation, this project also reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening the security and economic fabric of the North-east. The Siliguri Corridor has always been a vital part of the nation’s strategic infrastructure, and the underground railway line will further enhance its importance. This initiative reflects the Government of India’s vision for a modern, integrated, and secure transportation network that supports the growth and development of all regions, particularly those in strategic and sensitive areas.

Indian Railways is set to transform North-east connectivity with a new underground railway line that will enhance transportation, bolster security, and drive economic growth in the region. This project will provide a secure and efficient link between key hubs, strengthening both infrastructure and national defense.

In conclusion, the new underground railway line is a groundbreaking project for Indian Railways, one that will not only enhance regional connectivity but also contribute to the national security and economic development of the North-eastern region. By utilizing advanced technology and modern engineering techniques, the project ensures that the infrastructure is safe, resilient, and capable of supporting India’s long-term strategic goals. This infrastructure development project stands as a testament to India’s commitment to a secure and prosperous future for its North-eastern states.

The post Indian Railways to Revolutionize North-east Connectivity with Underground Railway Line, Boosting Security and Economic Development appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Indian Railways Launches Over One Thousand Four Hundred Holi Special Trains to Ensure Smooth Travel During the Festival Season

8 February 2026 at 04:49
Indian Railways Launches Over One Thousand Four Hundred Holi Special Trains to Ensure Smooth Travel During the Festival Season

Indian Railways has launched over one thousand four hundred special trains to ensure smooth travel during the Holi festival season. This move is aimed at accommodating the surge in passenger demand, providing a hassle-free travel experience for millions of people heading home or traveling for celebrations. By operating these additional services, Indian Railways is enhancing connectivity across key routes, ensuring that passengers can travel comfortably and efficiently during one of India’s busiest travel periods.

The special trains will mainly run during March, focusing on enhancing connectivity between major cities, tourist hotspots, and regional hubs. Holi, being one of India’s most widely celebrated festivals, results in a considerable increase in travel as people head home to celebrate with family or embark on short vacations. With this increased demand, the additional trains will provide much-needed relief to regular services, ensuring that all travelers have access to convenient and efficient transportation during this busy season.

The East Central Railway zone will take the lead in operating the highest number of special trains, with a total of 285 services planned. This region, which covers important areas in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, experiences a high volume of passengers during Holi, and the additional trains will provide essential services to cater to this demand. The special trains from East Central Railway will help maintain smooth travel across this critical area, ensuring that people can travel between smaller towns and larger cities without delay.

The Western Railway zone is also stepping up to meet the growing demand, with 231 Holi special trains slated for operation. This zone covers key areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, where significant numbers of people travel for family reunions or to attend Holi celebrations. By offering additional services, the Western Railway will help alleviate the strain on regular trains, ensuring that passengers can make their way to their destinations comfortably and without facing overcrowded trains.

Following these two zones, the Central Railway will also run 209 special services to connect passengers from Maharashtra and parts of Madhya Pradesh. Mumbai, being a major travel hub, witnesses a large number of people coming in and out of the city during the Holi festival. The extra services from the Central Railway will ensure that people can easily travel from the city to the countryside and back, providing much-needed flexibility for those traveling for the holiday season.

The South Central Railway, which covers several major cities in southern India, including Hyderabad and Bengaluru, will operate 160 special trains. With Holi being celebrated with great enthusiasm in southern states, the demand for trains connecting urban centers with regional towns and villages is high. To meet this demand, the South Central Railway’s additional trains will improve travel options and reduce congestion on regular routes.

In the northern region, the Northern Railway has planned to run 108 special trains, with a focus on facilitating travel to and from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. These areas experience a high influx of passengers during the festival, and the added services will help reduce overcrowding and ensure that travelers can return home or reach their destination with minimal delay.

Apart from the major zones mentioned, other regions such as the North Western Railway, North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, East Coast Railway, Southern Railway, and South Western Railway will also operate additional special trains. These extra services will further enhance regional connectivity, catering to travelers in various parts of the country, including Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.

To ensure smooth travel during the busy festival season, the Indian Railways is focusing on enhancing the comfort and safety of its passengers. The special trains will feature increased seating capacity, better cleanliness standards, and a greater focus on maintaining safety protocols. The additional trains will help ease the burden on regular services, reducing the chances of overcrowding and ensuring a more comfortable journey for everyone.

These measures are part of a broader effort by the Indian Railways to ensure that the millions of travelers during Holi can make their journeys safely and conveniently. The Ministry of Railways has emphasized the importance of timely coordination and scheduling to minimize delays and provide an efficient service. Additionally, strict safety measures will be implemented to ensure that passengers have a safe and pleasant journey.

By operating a record number of special trains, Indian Railways is playing a crucial role in facilitating travel during one of the busiest periods of the year. With enhanced services and greater connectivity, passengers will be able to celebrate Holi with family and friends without the stress of long travel times or overcrowded trains. The Holi special trains will help bridge the gap between regions and ensure that millions of people can enjoy the festivities with ease.

Indian Railways has launched over one thousand four hundred special trains to ensure smooth travel during the Holi festival season, accommodating the surge in passenger demand and enhancing connectivity across key routes.

In conclusion, the introduction of over 1,410 special trains this year by Indian Railways is a timely and much-needed response to the surge in passenger demand during Holi. With increased services across the country and enhanced amenities for passengers, these special trains will offer a convenient, safe, and comfortable way for people to travel during this festive season. This initiative underscores the commitment of Indian Railways to meeting the transportation needs of the nation while ensuring that everyone can participate in the joyous celebrations of Holi.

The post Indian Railways Launches Over One Thousand Four Hundred Holi Special Trains to Ensure Smooth Travel During the Festival Season appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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