Alipurduar, Aug. 5: With the first phase of gauge conversion complete, trains will begin rolling out on the new broad-gauge tracks by the end of this month.
Goods trains will start running between Alipurduar Junction and Siliguri towards the end of the month while passenger trains are likely to start services by the end of September.
General manager of Northeast Frontier Railway Vipin Handa said: “The trains will start running at the end of September 2003 between Alipurduar Junction and Siliguri, although the exact date has not yet been finalised.”
He added that the first phase of conversion work from meter-gauge to broad-gauge tracks between Siliguri and Samuktala Road has been completed. Train services in this sector have remained suspended since December 2002.
Yesterday, Nanda surveyed the meter-gauge track between New Bongaigaon and Samuktala Road along with other railway officials. He said the gauge conversion in this section will begin very soon.
Replying to a question, Nanda said the new track will benefit from a modern signalling system that will be installed. Several changes will also be made to upgrade facilities to ensure smooth operation of trains in this sector.
According to Nanda, Kanchan Kanya Express that plies between New Jalpaiguri and Sealdah will be extended upto Alipurduar Junction Station.
The Dooars Intercity Express and two other passenger trains will soon start plying between Alipurduar Junction and Siliguri on the broad-gauge tracks.
A railway official said the West Bengal Forest Department had filed a case in Calcutta High Court demanding provisions to prevent the trains from coming into conflict with wild animals. Since the tracks run through forest areas the court has suggested some measures that have been adopted by the railway authorities.
The official added that the railway is conscious of the ecology and environment and would, therefore, take steps to ensure that the trains do not affect animals.
Train journeys on the broad-gauge track are likely to be enjoyable as the route courses through hills, forests and rivers, he added.
