KOLKATA, September 2025 — Eastern Railway has announced plans to transform New Garia station into a major rail hub within the next two to three years, in a move aimed at easing congestion at Sealdah, one of the busiest junctions in its suburban network.

The upgrade will see New Garia undergo a comprehensive redevelopment, positioning it as an alternative node for passenger traffic in the Kolkata metropolitan area. Railway officials say the hub will help redistribute commuter flows, reduce overcrowding, and improve overall travel efficiency across the network.

Sealdah currently bears one of the heaviest passenger loads in the country, handling millions of suburban commuters daily. By shifting part of that load to New Garia, authorities hope to create a more balanced and resilient system while enhancing the travel experience for passengers.

The project is part of Eastern Railway’s broader strategy to modernise urban rail infrastructure and adapt to rising demand in Kolkata’s expanding suburbs. With the region’s population and daily ridership continuing to grow, officials stress that additional capacity and better connectivity are critical to keeping services reliable.

Once completed, the New Garia hub is expected to serve as a model for future upgrades in the network, combining improved facilities with stronger integration into the city’s transport ecosystem. The initiative underscores Eastern Railway’s commitment to forward-looking planning and its focus on delivering smoother, safer, and more efficient journeys for commuters.

Source: The Times of India