Starting from January 23rd several local trains on the Howrah to Bandel and Sheoraphuli to Howrah routes will remain suspended until January 26th. This decision comes as Eastern Railways initiates major reconstruction work on two old bridges near Howrah Station causing significant inconvenience for daily commuters.

Affected Train Services

Eastern Railways has announced the cancellation of

- Howrah-Bandel Route: 15 pairs of local trains, including the Bandel to Howrah Ladies Special.

- Sheoraphuli to Howrah Route: 11 pairs of local trains.

- Belur to Howrah Route: 2 pairs of trains.

- Howrah to Serampore Route: 2 pairs of trains.

While regular services will be disrupted, the railways hinted at running special trains to accommodate passenger demand. 

Reason for Suspension

Two historic bridges – “Benaras Bridge” (120 years old) in Salkia and “Chandmari Bridge” (91 years old) near Howrah Maidan - are being dismantled.

This will enable

- Expansion of train lines beneath the bridges from 36 meters to 66 meters for Benaras Bridge and from 60 meters to 134 meters for Chandmari Bridge.

- Enhanced train capacity at Howrah Station.

Infrastructure Upgrades

- Construction of a “four-story control building” near Howrah Rail Yard for interlocking signal systems and advanced cabling.

- Widening and strengthening of adjacent cable bridges for seamless train operations.

- Creation of longer platforms at Howrah Station to accommodate full-length trains, reducing passenger discomfort.

Howrah Station Revamp

Eastern Railways is relocating the “DRM building” near the Rail Museum to clear space. While maintaining the station’s heritage facade internal improvements will focus on modernising passenger amenities.

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Impact on Passengers

Commuters on the affected routes will face significant delays and disruptions. Travellers are advised to check train schedules and consider alternative transportation during this period.

‘Eastern Railways’ ambitious project aims to modernise Howrah Station and enhance rail infrastructure ensuring long-term benefits despite temporary inconveniences.