NFR Completes Redevelopment of Historic Haldibari Railway Station under ABSS

 Guwahati, 8^th July, 2026:

Northeast Frontier Railway has successfully redeveloped Haldibari Railway Station in West Bengal under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), transforming the station into a modern, accessible and passenger-friendly transport hub while preserving its regional heritage.

One of the oldest railway stations in North Bengal, Haldibari has historically served as an important gateway connecting Eastern and North-Eastern India. Originally commissioned in 1878, the station regained strategic importance with the reopening of the Haldibari – Chilahati rail link between India and Bangladesh in 2020, strengthening regional connectivity and cross-border trade.

The redevelopment works, completed in March 2026, include renovation of the station building and waiting halls, modernization of toilets, construction of a new 12-metre-wide Foot Over Bridge, additional platform shelters, resurfacing of platforms with granite and Kota stone, installation of two lifts, development of a spacious circulating area with improved drainage and parking facilities, façade enhancement, landscaping and beautification through graffiti art.

Special emphasis has been laid on passenger convenience and inclusivity through Divyangjan-friendly facilities such as ramps, tactile pathways, accessible toilets, improved signage, and upgraded passenger information systems. Modern telecom and security infrastructure has also been installed to enhance operational efficiency and passenger safety.

The redevelopment has addressed longstanding challenges such as congestion at the station entrance, inadequate parking, waterlogging and ageing infrastructure. A new entrance porch, better traffic circulation, expanded waiting areas, modular toilet facilities, improved lighting, and enhanced platform amenities now provide passengers with a safer, cleaner and more comfortable travel experience.

The upgraded station is expected to significantly benefit passengers, tourists, and the local community by improving connectivity, supporting economic growth, promoting regional products through the 'One Station One Product' initiative, and further strengthening the historic India–Bangladesh railway corridor.

Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Northeast Frontier Railway is redeveloping 92 stations across its jurisdiction as part of Indian Railways' nationwide initiative to modernize 1,337 railway stations, providing world-class passenger amenities, sustainable infrastructure, and enhanced connectivity.