West Bengal’s pivotal position as the gateway to Northeast India was underscored by state Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty during a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata on August 12, 2025. Highlighting the state’s robust infrastructure, Chakraborty noted that West Bengal boasts the third-largest road network in India, supported by 17 National Highways and two Asian Highways, ensuring seamless connectivity to the northeastern states.

The state’s maritime and air infrastructure further enhances its strategic importance. Chakraborty emphasized that the Kolkata and Haldia ports serve as vital maritime hubs, handling significant trade, while 16% of India’s National Waterways traverse West Bengal. Additionally, international airports in Kolkata and Bagdogra, alongside the greenfield airport at Andal in Paschim Bardhaman, bolster the state’s air connectivity, facilitating both passenger and cargo movement.

At the same event, WBHIDCO Vice Chairman H K Dwivedi highlighted the upcoming Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway, designed to streamline freight traffic and enhance intra-state connectivity. He also pointed to the thriving MSME sector, with credit lending reaching Rs 1.86 lakh crore in 2025. The two-day CII conference, featuring exhibitions and B2B meetings, drew hundreds of stakeholders, reinforcing West Bengal’s growing economic and logistical significance.

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