In a significant boost to suburban commuting in West Bengal, the Eastern Railway (ER) launched two new air-conditioned (AC) local train services on Friday, enhancing connectivity on the Sealdah-Bongaon-Ranaghat and Sealdah-Krishnanagar routes. The inaugural commercial runs of these trains departed from Sealdah station, marking a step forward in providing modern, comfortable travel options for daily commuters and travellers in one of India's busiest rail networks. This development follows the successful introduction of ER's first AC suburban Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) service on the Sealdah-Ranaghat route on August 10, reflecting the railway's commitment to upgrading passenger amenities amid growing urban demands. Officials anticipate that these services will alleviate overcrowding on peak-hour trains while offering a premium experience, complete with climate-controlled coaches, ergonomic seating, and enhanced safety features, catering to the evolving needs of Kolkata's metropolitan population.

The new AC EMU trains are designed to operate on two of the most congested corridors originating from Sealdah, a major hub handling millions of passengers daily. The Sealdah-Bongaon-Ranaghat service will connect the bustling city centre to suburban towns like Bongaon and Ranaghat, facilitating easier access for residents in the North 24 Parganas district who commute for work, education, or business. Similarly, the Sealdah-Krishnanagar route will serve commuters travelling to the Nadia district, known for its agricultural and cultural significance. Both services will run six days a week, excluding Sundays, with schedules aligned to peak travel times—typically early mornings and evenings—to maximise utility. An ER official emphasised that these trains represent a "premium, comfortable, and efficient travel experience," particularly on routes plagued by high footfall and occasional delays due to non-AC trains' limitations in extreme weather.

One of the standout advantages of the Ranaghat-Bongaon-Sealdah AC local is its proximity to key transit points, making it especially beneficial for air travellers. Passengers can conveniently board or alight at Dum Dum Cantonment station, located just a short distance from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. This integration could streamline journeys for domestic and international flyers, reducing reliance on road transport and cutting down on traffic congestion around the airport area. For instance, a commuter arriving from a flight could seamlessly transfer to the train for onwards travel to suburban destinations, saving time and reducing carbon footprints. On the cultural and tourism front, the Sealdah-Krishnanagar AC EMU is poised to enhance accessibility to Mayapur, the serene town housing the global headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Tourists and pilgrims visiting the temple complex, which attracts devotees from around the world, will benefit from a more comfortable ride, especially during humid summers or monsoon seasons when non-AC travel can be taxing.

Also Read: Pilgrimage To Mata Vaishno Devi Suspended For 11th Consecutive Day

This expansion aligns with broader railway modernisation efforts in India, where the push for AC coaches in local trains addresses passenger comfort while promoting energy-efficient public transport. Eastern Railway, headquartered in Kolkata, has been at the forefront of such initiatives, with investments in electrification, digital ticketing, and infrastructure upgrades to handle the region's dense population and economic activity. The introduction of AC services not only improves ridership but also supports environmental goals by encouraging a shift from private vehicles to sustainable rail options, potentially lowering urban pollution levels. Commuters have welcomed the move, with many expressing relief over the respite from sweltering heat in traditional trains, though affordability remains a consideration—fares for AC locals are slightly higher but justified by the added value.

Looking ahead, ER officials hint at further expansions, possibly extending AC services to other divisions or integrating them with metro networks for seamless multi-modal transport. As Kolkata continues to grow as a commercial and cultural epicentre, these enhancements are crucial for efficient urban mobility, reducing commute times, and fostering economic productivity. With the successful rollout of these two services, the railway aims to set a benchmark for suburban rail systems nationwide, ensuring that modern amenities reach even the most routine travellers. 

Also Read: GST Reforms Will Cause Rs 3,700 Crore Revenue Loss To Government: SBI Report