Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the extension of platforms at Sealdah Railway Station to accommodate 12-coach EMU trains, enhancing daily commuter capacity. He also launched new rail services, including the Radhikapur–Anand Vihar Terminal Express and inaugurated the Nashipur Railway Bridge, creating vital rail links in West Bengal.
Image Credit: Braithwaite & Co. Ltd.
Platform Extension at Sealdah Station:
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw dedicated to the nation the extension of five platforms (Platform No. 1 to 5) to accommodate 12-coach EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) local trains. This upgrade will increase the station’s capacity by enabling an additional 3 lakh passengers to travel daily, as more EMU trains are upgraded from 9-coach to 12-coach rakes, providing greater convenience for suburban commuters.
Inauguration of Nashipur Railway Bridge:
The Minister also inaugurated passenger train services over the newly commissioned Nashipur Railway Bridge in Murshidabad district, West Bengal. This bridge establishes a vital rail link between both sides of the Bhagirathi River, fulfilling the long-standing demand of the local residents.
Image Credit: Braithwaite & Co. Ltd.
New Rail Services Launched:
- He flagged off the Sealdah-Ranaghat EMU, Azimganj-Cossimbazar MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) train and the Krishnanagar-Azimganj passenger train through video conferencing.
- The Radhikapur–Anand Vihar Terminal Express, establishing the first direct rail connection between Radhikapur in Uttar Dinajpur district, West Bengal, and Delhi.
- This new service will significantly benefit students, patients, traders, and residents from the surrounding districts, including Malda in West Bengal and Katihar in Bihar.
Image Credit: Braithwaite & Co. Ltd.
Rail Coach Restaurant & Local Initiatives:
- A Rail Coach Restaurant at Sealdah was inaugurated, offering a unique dining experience.
- Shri Vaishnaw also viewed an exhibition of old movie posters and visited the One Station One Product (OSOP) stall, promoting local products with digital payments.
Visit to Braithwaite & Co. Ltd. and Swachchta Hi Seva Campaign:
The Minister visited Braithwaite & Co. Ltd., inspected the modified Guard Van, participated in the Swachchta Hi Seva cleanliness drive, and contributed to mechanized cleaning. Later, he paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Bhawan, Beleghata, marking Gandhi Jayanti.
Image Credit: Braithwaite & Co. Ltd.
Conclusion:
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw’s Sealdah Station initiatives and launch of new rail services mark a significant advancement in passenger convenience, rail connectivity, and local entrepreneurship. The Nashipur Railway Bridge and new train services will boost regional transport, while the Swachchta campaign reinforces commitment to cleanliness.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Featured Image Credit: PIB
