Railways add more stops to Bengal's AC local routes | See List

Eastern Railway has announced a significant decision to increase the number of stops for its popular AC local trains in the Sealdah Division. Starting from September 15, the AC local services will now halt at several new, important stations, including Shyamnagar and Belgharia. This change is a direct response to a long-standing demand from passengers and local representatives for more accessible and comfortable travel options on these busy suburban routes. The decision is set to benefit thousands of daily commuters who previously had to travel to more distant stations to board the air-conditioned trains.

The expansion of the AC local service is a testament to its success since its introduction. The first AC local on the Sealdah-Ranaghat route, launched on August 10, has received an overwhelming response from the public, with high occupancy rates despite its higher fare. This positive feedback prompted the Eastern Railway to not only introduce two new AC locals on the Sealdah-Bongaon-Ranaghat and Sealdah-Krishnanagar routes but also to make them more widely accessible.

The new decision, effective from September 15, applies to the Sealdah-Ranaghat and Sealdah-Bongaon-Ranaghat AC local services. For the Sealdah-Ranaghat route, the train will now have additional stops at Shyamnagar and Belgharia. This is a particularly welcome change for commuters as both are key suburban stations with high passenger traffic. The expansion will make the AC service accessible to a broader section of the commuting public.

The Sealdah-Bongaon-Ranaghat AC local will also see an increase in its stops, adding key stations such as Chandpara, Machhlandpur, Ashoknagar Road, Bira, and Birati. This strategic addition of stops is expected to provide much-needed relief to commuters on this congested route, especially during the hot and humid weather, making their daily travel more comfortable and efficient.