Varanasi–Siliguri High-Speed Rail Corridor

The Varanasi–Siliguri High-Speed Rail Corridor is a proposed high-speed rail line in India that will connect Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Siliguri in West Bengal, passing through Bihar. The project was announced in the Union Budget 2026–27 as part of plans to expand high-speed rail in eastern India. The corridor aims to reduce travel time between major cities, improve connectivity, and support economic development along its route. As of 2026, the detailed alignment, stations, and construction timeline are not yet final.

Proposed route

The exact route and stations have not been officially confirmed. The Ministry of Railways has said that the corridor will pass through Bihar, via Patna. Other station stops and the full alignment have not been made public.

According to media reports and local discussions, it is expected that the bullet train may run along the Buxar – Patna – Begusarai – Naugachia – Katihar – Kishanganj route. This possible route would connect important towns in North Bihar and North Bengal with the high-speed rail network.

• Note: The route is tentative and may change when the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is finalized.

Background

India has been working to expand its high-speed rail network. After the Mumbai–Ahmedabad corridor, several new corridors were announced to improve travel between major cities. The Varanasi–Siliguri corridor is planned to strengthen connectivity in eastern India and provide faster train services across the region.

History

The corridor was first announced in the Union Budget 2026–27. The project is currently in the planning stage. Feasibility studies and the DPR are still being prepared, and construction has not started yet.

Objectives

• Reduce travel time between eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and northern West Bengal.
• Connect towns in north Bihar and north Bengal to the high-speed rail network.
• Support economic growth and regional development.
• Improve access to education, healthcare, and jobs.

Current status

As of 2026, the project is in the proposal stage. No construction has started yet. The DPR and final alignment are yet to be released.

See also

• • List of high-speed railway lines in India
  • Delhi–Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor
  • Mumbai–Nagpur high-speed rail corridor
  • Mumbai–Hyderabad high-speed rail corridor
  • AC Superfast Express
  • Tejas Express
  • Uday Express
  • Vande Bharat Express