The Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced an underground railway corridorof 40-km underground railway by the Indian Railways in West Bengal at Siliguri. This is the only land corridor connecting India with the Northeast.
The Union Budget for 2026-27 notes that Siliguri will serve as a strategic railway hub, and a method to create a network of high-speed railway connections.
Including a proposed high-speed railway corridor from Varanasi to Siliguri, and an associated underground tunnel.
The goal of these projects is to create a faster rail transport system, as well as to provide a reliable and quick rail connection between India and its Northeast region.
Siliguri’s Strategic Role of Gateway to Northeast
Siliguri known as the “Gateway to India’s North East”. It has a major logistical role to play through its rail and road connectivity.
Connecting the important states of Assam, North Bengal, Sikkim and Bhutan.
Any future extension through this corridor could reduce travel time between major eastern cities and the Northeastern states.
According to government officials, this proposed line could connect existing and future high-speed rail corridors in eastern India to the major city of Guwahati, thus enhancing access to the region and enhancing the overall development of the economy.
Although no final route or timeline has been officially announced, feasibility studies are expected to study certain issues.
Issues such as terrain challenges, land availability, and environmental impact, especially in sensitive hilly areas.
High-Speed Bullet Train Expected to Boost Regional Growth for Trade, Tourism, and Employment
The proposed expansion of high-speed rail in the regions is a major step in promoting balanced regional development.
Faster modes of transportation and increased connectivity will enhance opportunities for trade, tourism, education, and employment.
Indian Railways Officials confirmed, prior to approving the project, a full technical and financial assessment of the project will be conducted since it has not yet received any funding.
However, the growing focus on infrastructure development in the Northeast has raised expectations. High-speed rail could become a reality in the region in the coming years.
In constructing a bullet train corridor from Siliguri to Northeast India, it will mark another step toward improving India’s overall transportation network.
By directly connecting all regions of India to Northeast via a fast, high quality railroad; thus connecting many of Northeast India’s isolated communities to the rest of India.
