Indian Railways has emerged as a major catalyst for infrastructure-led growth across eastern and north-eastern India over the past decade, according to Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer of Northeast Frontier Railway.
He said the regions, once constrained by geography and ageing infrastructure, are witnessing a decisive shift towards integrated and future-ready rail systems under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the world’s largest railway station redevelopment programme. More than 1,300 stations have been identified nationwide, with upgrades extending beyond aesthetics to include modern passenger amenities, accessible facilities for people with disabilities (Divyangjan-friendly access), digital systems, and architecture inspired by local heritage.
West Bengal has emerged as a key beneficiary, with 101 Amrit Bharat stations being redeveloped at an investment of around ₹3,600 crore. Major stations, such as Howrah, Sealdah, New Jalpaiguri, Kharagpur, and Asansol, are being upgraded under a unified modernisation vision.
Flagship projects include New Jalpaiguri (₹335 crore) and Santragachi (₹380 crore), alongside expanded passenger amenities such as lifts, escalators and Wi-Fi, reinforcing the railways’ role in regional economic growth.
