West Bengal approves land acquisition for strategic rail line near India-China-Bhutan tri-junction
The West Bengal government has cleared the acquisition of approximately 380 hectares of land for a new railway line designed to improve connectivity to the border area near the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction. The decision is expected to expedite work on the 20-km Chalsa-Naxak new line project, which was originally sanctioned in 2011-12.
The project, a vital component of the New Jalpaiguri-Siliguri-New Bongaigaon gauge conversion project, was placed in abeyance in September 2019 due to lack of cooperation from the then state government. According to official records, the railways revived the project in January after a six-year hiatus, along with five others, but progress remained stalled due to the absence of state government support.
Recent developments indicate a change in approach. Siliguri MP Raju Bista said that after a review of all pending railway projects, the state government has now given the go-ahead for this strategically important project. He noted that the railway ministry has sanctioned around Rs 272 crore for a new 17-km line to Jaldhaka. The route will originate from Khunia More near Chalsa and pass through the Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong forest divisions.
The new rail link is expected to boost tourism in the Jhaldhaka-Bindu-Todey Tangta area and improve access to the tri-junction, which is near the Doklam plateau — a region of strategic significance for India, Bhutan, and China.
The railways and the West Bengal forest department will conduct a joint survey after the monsoon to assess the alignment and environmental considerations for the proposed line.
Local officials and residents have expressed hope that the project will enhance economic activity and connectivity in the northern part of the state. The railway line is also seen as a step toward strengthening border infrastructure, though officials have refrained from commenting on strategic aspects.
