New Jalpaiguri station set for major revamp with separate departure & arrival buildings
New Jalpaiguri station is an important entry point to North Bengal, Sikkim, Northeast India, and nearby countries like Nepal and Bhutan. It is the first station in West Bengal being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme to become a world-class facility with modern amenities.
Abhishek Byahut
Siliguri (West Bengal)
New Jalpaiguri station in Siliguri, West Bengal, is undergoing a significant transformation under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
This redevelopment aims to make it a world-class railway station with modern facilities, reflecting its importance as a key gateway to North Bengal, Sikkim, Northeast India, and neighboring nations like Nepal and Bhutan.
The Ministry of Railways has allocated a revised budget of Rs 500 crores for the project. The upgrade includes expanding the main station building from 4,800 square meters to 19,800 square meters, which will now feature separate buildings for arrival and departure, similar to airport facilities.
Anoop Singh, Senior DCM of New Jalpaiguri said that the New Jalpaiguri station project occupies over 100,000 Sqm and features five foot overbridges, 11 platforms, double parking of 23,430 Sqm, 24 lifts, and 21 escalators. “Facilities for people with disabilities have improved with the addition of 13 toilets. The number of washrooms has increased to 66 urinals and 105 latrines. Water and sewage treatment plants have also been added,” Mr Singh said.
The station, which currently accommodates around 60,000 passengers a day, will have the capacity to serve 120,000 passengers daily after the renovation. This upgrade is essential to meet the increasing travel demands in the region.
The Union Railways Minister recently inspected the ongoing construction, which is expected to be finished by February 2027.
With an initial sanction of Rs 334 crores, the cost has been increased to accommodate more public conveniences and passenger amenities.
Ajay Singh, ADRM of New Jalpaiguri, emphasized the airport-style design of the station, which will help manage increased foot traffic and ensure smooth movement for passengers connecting to Northeast India and beyond.
New Jalpaiguri station ranks among the top 100 in India for ticket sales, with 70 pairs of trains operating daily. The redevelopment will enable the station to handle more trains and better support the potential growth of an IT hub in the area.
Overall, more than 101 railway stations in West Bengal are being developed under this scheme, with a total investment of around Rs 3,600 crores.
