Siliguri: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has decided to develop infrastructure at five stations in its zone, including Siliguri and Alipurduar Junctions, this year.

"The NFR will spend Rs 65 crore for development of five rail stations in its zone. Around Rs 10 crore to Rs 15 crore will be spent for developing each station. The process will be initiated soon and work work will be completed by December," said PJ Sharma, chief public relation officer of the NFR.

The stations to be revamped are Siliguri, Alipurduar, Guwahati, Rangiya and New Tinsukia, NFR sources said.

According to Sharma, funds will be spent for improvement of station's facade, building and surface of platforms among others. "Washable apron (non-ballast concrete tracks) will be laid at the stations and more signage will be put up for the convenience of passengers. Circulating areas will be improved for better movement of passengers and LED lights will be installed across the station area," he said.

Siliguri Junction is considered an important station after NJP in the region. "A number of trains now move through Siliguri Junction and take the Dooars route or the Bagdogra-Aluabari route. Infrastructure development of the station is required as number of passengers is on the rise," said a railway official.

The decision to renovate the Siliguri Junction has also earned appreciation from residents of the town.

"It was a longstanding demand to improve the infrastructure of Siliguri Junction. As it is centrally located as compared to the NJP, we have also demanded important trains like the Darjeeling Mail, should be extended to this station. We welcome the decision made by the railways," said Ratan Banik, secretary of Brihattar Siliguri Nagarik Mancha.