Eastern Railway sanctions seven subways to prevent dangerous track crossings
The Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway has sanctioned the construction of seven limited height subways at locations where pedestrians frequently cross active railway tracks. The decision, announced on June 13, 2026, aims to eliminate the daily risk faced by residents in suburban and rural areas.
The subways will be built at the following locations: Aranghata–Bahirgachhi (Ranaghat–Gede Section), Bagula–Banpur (Ranaghat–Gede Section), Karanjali–NCPM (Lakshmikantapur–Namkhana Section), Sonarpur–Baruipur Section, Kakdwip–Ukilerhat (Lakshmikantapur–Namkhana), Bangaon–Petrapole Section, and Krishnanagar–Santipur Section.
Rajeev Saxena, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Sealdah Division, stated, 'Safety remains our foremost priority. These proposed Limited Height Subways are long-term investments in protecting lives and improving connectivity for local communities. By addressing critical trespassing locations through engineering solutions, we are committed to creating a safer railway environment while ensuring that residents can access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities without risking their lives on railway tracks.'
The locations were identified through field surveys, footplate inspections, assessment of Train Vehicle Unit movement, local consultations, and safety evaluations. Officials observed substantial pedestrian and vehicular movement, including motorcycles, e-rickshaws, and four-wheelers, using unauthorised crossings due to the absence of convenient alternative routes. Many of these spots are several kilometres from the nearest level crossing gates, forcing residents to take dangerous shortcuts to reach hospitals, schools, markets, banks, and government offices.
The proposed reinforced concrete box subways will create complete grade separation between rail and road movement, allowing pedestrians and local vehicles to pass safely beneath the tracks. Once completed, these facilities are expected to reduce accident risks, improve emergency access, and enhance daily mobility for surrounding communities.
