New Railway Link To Strengthen Access Near India-China-Bhutan Tri-Junction Strategic Corridor

India has approved a new 17-kilometre railway line in North Bengal aimed at strengthening connectivity to the strategically significant India-China-Bhutan tri-junction while enhancing tourism in the Dooars region. The Khunia More–Jaldhaka rail project, sanctioned by the Ministry of Railways, will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 272 crore. The proposed rail link will originate from Khunia More near Chalsa and extend to Jaldhaka, passing through the Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong forest divisions.

Besides improving transportation in the region, the project is expected to provide better access to areas close to the international border and support economic and tourism activities. Siliguri MP Raju Bista announced the approval in a social media post, describing it as a significant infrastructure boost for North Bengal. “Happy to share that the Ministry of Railways 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 Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong forest divisions,” he said.

The railway line is expected to strengthen connectivity in one of the country's strategically important regions, located near the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction. Improved rail infrastructure in the area is expected to facilitate easier movement of people and goods while complementing existing road networks. Apart from its strategic importance, the project is also expected to benefit the tourism sector. The Dooars region, known for its forests, wildlife sanctuaries, tea gardens and scenic landscapes, attracts thousands of domestic and international visitors every year.

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Improved rail access could make travel to the region more convenient and encourage greater tourist inflow. The proposed alignment through the Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong forest divisions is expected to improve connectivity for local communities while supporting economic development in surrounding areas. Better transport infrastructure could also enhance access to markets, educational institutions and healthcare facilities for residents. The sanction of the project forms part of the Centre's broader push to expand railway infrastructure in border and strategically significant regions.

Such projects are aimed at improving regional connectivity, strengthening logistics and supporting balanced economic development across the country. Once completed, the Khunia More–Jaldhaka rail line is expected to complement existing railway and road networks in North Bengal, reducing travel time and improving accessibility to remote areas. The project is also likely to generate employment during its construction phase and contribute to long-term economic activity in the region.

While the Ministry of Railways has approved the project, further steps, including detailed planning, land acquisition and environmental clearances where required, will precede construction. Authorities are expected to announce implementation timelines as the project progresses. The new railway line is seen as an important addition to India's transport infrastructure in North Bengal, combining strategic significance with the potential to promote tourism and regional development in the ecologically rich Dooars region.

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