GUWAHATI: The Modi government has taken some serious steps to mitigate the external and internal threats to the Silliguri corridor, also known as the Chicken Neck. In a significant move aimed at bolstering connectivity and national security in eastern India, the Modi government has proposed constructing a new underground railway line through the strategically vital Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “Chicken’s Neck.” The initiative is designed to ensure uninterrupted rail access between the Northeastern states and the rest of India.
Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, said the project reflects the Centre’s commitment to securing critical infrastructure in sensitive zones. Addressing the media, he stated that the proposed line will strengthen secure and reliable connectivity across the narrow corridor, which serves as the primary land link to the Northeast.
The underground railway alignment is planned between Tinmile Hat, Rangapani, and Bagdogra, covering a total stretch of 35.76 km from Dumdangi to Bagdogra. Of this, the Dumdangi–Rangapani segment accounts for 33.40 km. The route falls under the Katihar Division of the Northeast Frontier Railway and passes through parts of Darjeeling and Uttar Dinajpur districts in West Bengal, as well as Kishanganj district in Bihar.
The Siliguri Corridor, barely 22 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, is geographically sensitive due to its proximity to the international borders of Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. It has long been viewed as strategically vulnerable to external threats, natural disasters and congestion-related disruptions. Officials said the underground alignment has been conceptualised to create a protected, non-visible route that can ensure continuity of operations even during emergencies.
Beyond civilian mobility, the project is expected to play a crucial role in defence preparedness. Its proximity to Bagdogra Air Force Station and the Bengdubi Army Cantonment of the Indian Army’s 33 Corps makes it strategically important for swift movement of troops, military hardware and relief materials during contingencies.
Railway authorities have indicated that advanced engineering solutions will be employed in the project. The line will feature a 2×25 kV AC electrification system and Standard-IV automatic signalling, supported by VoIP-based communication over optical fibre and quad cables. Infrastructure components, including bridges, will conform to RDSO standards for 25-ton axle loads. Twin tunnels are proposed to be constructed using Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology, with NATM methods for cross passages and crossovers.
Once completed, the underground rail corridor is expected to significantly enhance resilience, security and logistical efficiency in the region, aligning with the government’s broader vision of integrated infrastructure development in the Northeast.
