Indian Railways Approves ROB in West Bengal, Sanctions New Passenger Halts to Boost Regional Connectivity
In a significant step toward strengthening transport infrastructure and improving last-mile connectivity, Indian Railways has sanctioned a major Road Over Bridge (ROB) project in West Bengal along with several new passenger halts across West Bengal and Jharkhand. The initiatives are aimed at decongesting high-traffic rail crossings and extending rail accessibility to underserved and rural communities.
ROB to Replace Congested Level Crossing in West Bengal
Indian Railways has approved the construction of a Road Over Bridge in place of Level Crossing No. 101 between Malahar Halt and Samsi in the Katihar Division of Northeast Frontier Railway. The project, estimated at ₹176.99 crore, comes in response to severe congestion and safety concerns at the busy crossing.
A recent traffic census recorded nearly 4,21,001 Traffic Vehicle Units at the site, highlighting the pressing need for grade separation. The proposed ROB, along with an additional light ROB at a diversion point, will eliminate road–rail conflicts, reduce bottlenecks, and significantly enhance safety for motorists, pedestrians, and emergency services. Fully funded by Indian Railways, the project is expected to ensure uninterrupted connectivity, ease daily commutes, and reduce travel time for residents and traders in the region.
New Passenger Halt at Chandipur
To improve rail access in coastal West Bengal, a new passenger halt has been approved at Chandipur between Kalikakhali and Lavan Satyagraha Smarak stations on the Panskura–Digha line under South Eastern Railway’s Kharagpur Division. The halt will benefit local residents, students, and daily commuters, while also supporting tourism to the popular Digha beach area. Improved rail connectivity is expected to stimulate local markets and enhance travel convenience.
Halt Near Sidhu Kanho University
A new passenger halt near Sidhu Kanho University has been sanctioned on the Purulia–Gourinathdham section in Adra Division. Located between Purulia and Gourinathdham stations, the halt will provide direct rail access to students, faculty members, and nearby communities. The facility is expected to reduce travel time, promote safer commuting, and strengthen education-linked mobility in the region, particularly benefiting economically vulnerable populations.
Sidhi Jamra Halt Approved
Responding to local demand, Indian Railways has approved a passenger halt at Sidhi Jamra on the Radhagaon–Pundag section in Adra Division. The new halt will expand rail accessibility in rural West Bengal and facilitate daily commuting for residents of nearby villages. It is expected to link small settlements with economic and social hubs in adjoining towns, supporting students, workers, and families.
Nashipur Halt to Improve Rural Connectivity
On the Bhadrpur–Lalgola section of Eastern Railway, a new halt at Nashipur has been sanctioned between Murshidabad and Jiaganj. The move will provide a reliable boarding point for rural commuters, traders, daily wage workers, and students. By reducing dependence on road transport, the halt is set to improve last-mile connectivity and promote more efficient regional travel.
Jangalpara Halt on Howrah–Goghat Section
The halt at Jangalpara (earlier Rasulpur) on the Howrah–Goghat section in Howrah Division has also been approved following local demand. Positioned between Talpur and Takipur halts, the station will enhance suburban connectivity and support daily travel needs of students and working professionals, contributing to improved quality of life and regional mobility.
Rangmati Halt in Jharkhand
In Jharkhand, a new passenger halt at Rangmati on the Muri–Gonda section under Ranchi Division has been sanctioned. The halt will bring rail services closer to rural communities, providing easier access to marketplaces, schools, and essential services. Reduced travel costs and better integration with regional transport networks are expected to benefit local residents.
Collectively, these approvals underscore Indian Railways’ commitment to building safe, inclusive, and accessible infrastructure. By addressing congestion at critical crossings and expanding rail reach to underserved regions, the projects aim to ensure that the benefits of railway development extend to every corner of the country.
