Kolkata, June 14 (IANS) In a push towards providing better amenities to passengers, Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Tarakeswar-Seoraphuli section of Eastern Railway (ER) on Sunday. He also inspected the Tarakeswar and Seoraphuli stations and discussed key strategies to improve passenger services.

Work is already under way to extend this section up to Bankura. Work on only a small stretch has been held up because of legal issues. Once completed, the project will provide a shorter route from Howrah to the southern districts of Bankura and Purulia.

“He was accompanied by senior officials from the Railway Board, ER and South Eastern Railway (SER). The visit was aimed at strengthening railway infrastructure and accelerating socio-economic development in West Bengal,” an ER official said.

“The Chairman reviewed passenger management arrangements and operational aspects of the section to ensure smooth train operations and enhanced passenger convenience. He also held detailed discussions with railway officials on measures to improve service quality and operational efficiency,” the official added.

Kumar also chaired a coordination meeting at Tarakeswar with the District Magistrate of Hooghly and senior officials of the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of West Bengal, in an effort to expedite key infrastructure projects.

The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between the Railways and the state government for the timely execution of ongoing and upcoming railway projects in the region.

The Chairman also emphasised the importance of completing infrastructure projects within stipulated timelines, highlighting their role in improving connectivity, boosting economic growth and enhancing passenger amenities.

Kumar also conducted a window-trailing inspection from Tarakeswar to Howrah.

During the inspection, he closely examined track alignment, overhead equipment (OHE), signalling installations and the overall cleanliness and upkeep of railway premises.

He then carried out a detailed inspection of the Howrah station complex, including the station building and circulating areas.

“He issued several directives aimed at improving passenger amenities, traffic circulation and station aesthetics. He advised covering platform areas with transparent roofing sheets to maximise natural light, optimising holding areas for better crowd management and creating dedicated entry and exit points for smoother passenger movement. He also emphasised improving connectivity between the station and the Metro network through streamlined access routes,” the official said.

Kumar also directed comprehensive renovation and aesthetic enhancement of the historic station building, optimisation of parcel loading and unloading areas, and installation of prominent platform indication signage at station entry points to facilitate easier navigation for passengers.22:00 14-06-2026.

–IANS

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