Sealdah Division of Eastern Railway sanctions seven subways to end crossing of tracks by pedestrians

Sealdah Division of Eastern Railways on Monday (June 13, 2026) sanctioned seven limited height subways at critical trespassing locations to end daily crossing of active railway tracks by pedestrians in suburban and rural areas. 

According to the officials from Sealdah Division, these subways will be constructed at Aranghata – Bahirgachhi route (Ranaghat–Gede Section), Bagula – Banpur (Ranaghat–Gede Section), Karanjali – NCPM (Lakshmikantapur–Namkhana Section), Sonarpur – Baruipur Section (SPR–BDYP), Kakdwip – Ukilerhat (Lakshmikantapur–Namkhana), Bangaon – Petrapole Section, and Krishnanagar – Santipur Section.

Speaking on the initiative, Rajeev Saxena, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Sealdah Division said, “Safety remains our foremost priority. These proposed Limited Height Subways are not merely infrastructure projects; they are long-term investments in protecting lives and improving connectivity for local communities. By addressing critical trespassing locations through engineering solutions, Sealdah Division is committed to creating a safer railway environment while ensuring that residents can access education, healthcare and economic opportunities without risking their lives on railway tracks.”

The proposed subways have been identified after extensive field surveys, footplate inspections, assessment of Train Vehicle Unit (TVU) movement, local consultations, and detailed safety evaluations, said officials.

At all seven locations, railway officials observed substantial pedestrian and vehicular movement, including motorcycles, e-rickshaws (totos), four-wheelers and pedestrians using unauthorised crossings due to the absence of convenient alternative routes.

“Many of these locations are situated several kilometres away from the nearest level crossing gates, leaving residents with limited options to reach hospitals, schools, markets, banks, government offices and other essential facilities, said Mr. Saxena. 

The proposed reinforced concrete box subways will create complete grade separation between rail and road movement, allowing pedestrians and local vehicles to pass safely beneath the railway tracks. Once completed, these facilities will significantly reduce the risk of accidents, improve emergency access, and enhance day-to-day mobility for surrounding communities.