Balurghat-Hili Railway expansion resumes after 12 years; Land acquisition process underway

The expansion of the Balurghat-Hili railway line, which had been suspended for over 12 years, has resumed with the initiation of land acquisition and construction work. This project, aimed at improving connectivity between Balurghat and Hili, includes the construction of several railway bridges and the expansion of existing tracks. Work initially began in the early 2010s but was abruptly halted due to unspecified reasons, leaving the project stalled despite preliminary work on bridges.

With renewed efforts from local officials and central government support, the project has restarted. Balurghat MP Sukanta Majumdar played a key role in securing central funds for the continuation of the expansion. The South Dinajpur district administration has transferred approximately 30% of the required land to the railways. Much of the land acquisition has focused on the Khidirpur mouza, which will see extensive infrastructure development.

Land clearing has already begun in Khidirpur, where construction equipment such as soil-cutting machines is being used to demolish houses and prepare the land. Some residents in the area have voluntarily vacated their properties, while others have seen their homes demolished as part of the project. Compensation for the land being acquired has been provided to the affected residents, and the railways are continuing the process of land transfer for the completion of the railway line.

The project also includes the construction of a large railway bridge in Khidirpur, which is expected to be a key feature of the expanded line. Additionally, plans are in place for the construction of a bridge over the Atreyi River, which will further enhance connectivity in the region. While some land acquisition processes are still pending, officials have indicated that further transfers are expected to be completed in the near future.

Despite the progress, there have been ongoing challenges related to land acquisition and coordination between local and railway authorities. MP Sukanta Majumdar expressed concerns over delays in the land acquisition process and the lack of full cooperation from local administration. In response, District Magistrate Bijin Krishna emphasized that a significant portion of the land acquisition has been completed, and additional land transfers will occur in the coming months. Construction work on the railway bridges and other related infrastructure is expected to accelerate once the land acquisition process is fully completed.