In a landmark announcement that promises to revolutionize India's long-distance rail infrastructure, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled ambitious plans for seven high-speed rail corridors during her presentation of the Union Budget 2026 in Parliament. This strategic initiative aims to reshape inter-city travel and foster deeper regional integration by linking key economic and cultural hubs across the nation.
Siliguri-Varanasi-Delhi Corridor: A Game-Changer for North Bengal and Beyond
Among the proposed corridors, the Siliguri-Varanasi high-speed rail link, with seamless onward connectivity to Delhi, has generated significant optimism in North Bengal and the North Eastern regions. This corridor is poised to dramatically enhance religious tourism and pilgrimage travel by slashing journey times to Varanasi, India's revered spiritual capital. Currently, travel between Siliguri and Varanasi spans a grueling 13 to 17 hours by conventional trains, covering approximately 720-760 km. Even the fastest services, such as the Tejas Express, take about 11 hours and 25 minutes, while the Rajdhani Express requires around 13 to 13.5 hours from New Jalpaiguri.
The introduction of high-speed rail is expected to reduce this travel duration to just a few hours, potentially transforming a full-day expedition into a swift, comfortable commute. This reduction is anticipated to encourage more frequent pilgrimages, thereby stimulating economic activity in tourism, hospitality, and allied sectors. The corridor's impact extends beyond mere convenience, promising to unlock new avenues for trade, education, and employment across the Indo-Gangetic plains.
Political Reactions and Regional Implications
Darjeeling BJP MP Raju Bista warmly welcomed the announcement, emphasizing its broader significance. He stated, "The Delhi-Varanasi and Varanasi-Siliguri corridors will significantly enhance connectivity across the Indo-Gangetic plains, improving passenger mobility, tourism, and business travel across north Bengal, eastern India, and the North-East. This initiative is set to unlock new opportunities for trade, tourism, education, and employment, fostering regional development and integration."
However, the budget has not been without criticism. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee slammed the Centre's proposals, labeling it a 'Humpty Dumpty' budget and claiming it offers 'nothing for the common man' in Bengal. This contrast highlights the political dimensions of such infrastructural investments, even as they promise tangible benefits for connectivity and economic growth.
Broader Context and Future Prospects
The announcement of these high-speed rail corridors aligns with the government's vision to modernize India's transportation network and boost regional economies. By connecting Siliguri, a crucial gateway to the North East, with Varanasi and Delhi, the corridor aims to bridge geographical divides and promote cultural exchange. As details emerge on implementation timelines and funding, stakeholders in North Bengal and beyond are keenly watching how this project will unfold, hoping it delivers on its promise of enhanced mobility and prosperity.
