Railways sanctions Rs 432 cr to rebuild key bridge in West Bengal; trains to run at 130 kmph speed

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The Railways further said that, keeping future requirements in mind, the sanctioned works also include provisions for a fourth railway line.The Railways further said that, keeping future requirements in mind, the sanctioned works also include provisions for a fourth railway line. (Image generated using AI)

Railway projects in West Bengal: Indian Railways (IR) has sanctioned Rs 432 crore for rebuilding a key bridge in West Bengal. Located on the Howrah–Kharagpur section, the infrastructure project – estimated at Rs 431.76 crore – is aimed at meeting both present and future operational requirements.

According to the railways, with rising axle loads, increasing traffic volumes and planned train speeds of up to 130 kmph, the new bridge will be engineered to efficiently handle a higher gross tonnage of 57 GMT. The project falls under the administrative control of the South Eastern Railway (SER) zone.

Rail bridge on Howrah–Kharagpur section

Rail bridge number 57 is one of the most important bridges on the Howrah–Kharagpur section and has been supporting rail operations for over six decades on well-established foundations.

With the sanctioned rebuilding, a modern and robust structure will be introduced to enhance durability and minimise age-related material deterioration. The upgraded design is expected to strengthen safety margins and ensure long-term service reliability.

In a statement, the railways said that the modern structure, aligned with current engineering standards will improve structural resilience and operational performance while matching the parallel line infrastructure in the section.

Howrah-Kharagpur 4th line

The Railways further said that, keeping future requirements in mind, the sanctioned works also include provisions for a fourth railway line.

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“Keeping future needs in view, the sanctioned works also include provisions for a 4th Railway line. Considering space availability, economy, and technical parameters, a combined substructure capable of accommodating both the Up line and the future 4th line has been planned.

The sanctioned project will significantly enhance safety, connectivity, capacity, and operational efficiency on this busy Rail corridor,” it said.

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More

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