The Tarakeswar – Bishnupur new rail line project, spanning a total length of 82.47 km, holds the key to revolutionizing the socio-economic conditions of Tarakeswar and its surrounding areas. This ambitious project not only promises enhanced connectivity but also has the potential to transform Tarakeswar into a major tourist destination, thanks to its Lord Shiva Shrine that attracts devotees from across India.
Redevelopment Initiatives: The rapid reformation work at Tarakeswar station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with a substantial investment of 24.4 crore, is underway. This initiative aims to give the station a complete facelift, transforming it into a world-class facility capable of drawing in a larger number of tourists to the region.
Challenges Faced: Despite the immense potential and the railway’s dedication to development, the Tarakeswar area has faced economic constraints due to a land lock in railway communication. The completion of the Tarakeswar – Bishnupur link is hindered by land acquisition-related bottlenecks. Currently, trains run up to Goghat from the Tarakeswar end and up to Maynapur from Bishnupur.
Current Status: While a significant portion of the new line project is almost completed, a mere 950 meters of railway track laying at Bhabadighi area remains pending. The completion of this stretch is crucial for uninterrupted rail connectivity. Unfortunately, about 0.78 acres of land are yet to be handed over to Railways due to ongoing land acquisition issues.
Land Acquisition Challenges: The Bhabadighi water pond, covering an area of 17.48 acres, plays a pivotal role in this project. Only 3.05 acres of land, with a length of 300 meters, is required for laying the railway track in this area. Despite the cooperation of villagers in the Bhabadighi area, land from 77 persons is still pending for acquisition. The Hon’ble High Court has issued orders in favor of land acquisition, but Railways has yet to receive the total area required.
Railway’s Efforts: Eastern Railway is making earnest efforts to overcome these challenges and complete the project for the region’s development. Multiple meetings have been organized with state authorities and local inhabitants to find an amicable solution. It is expected that a resolution will soon be reached to move the project forward.
Tourism Development: The Tarakeswar – Bishnupur rail line, passing through the tourism potential areas of Bishnupur, Jayrambati, Kamarpukur, and Tarakeswar, is poised to become a tourism development catalyst. This new rail link not only facilitates intra-state and inter-state movement but also opens the floodgates for tourists, contributing to the development of various ancillary industries.
Conclusion: The completion of the Tarakeswar – Bishnupur new rail line project is not just about connecting two points; it’s about unlocking the economic potential of the entire region. With the promise of enhanced connectivity and increased tourist influx, West Bengal stands to benefit from economic growth, job creation, and increased earnings, making this project a crucial driver for the state’s prosperity.
