Eastern India's first AC local launched on Sealdah-Ranaghat route | See timings and stops

Eastern India's first-ever AC local train service was officially inaugurated on the Sealdah-Ranaghat section on a Sunday, adding a new level of comfort to the daily commute. The formal inauguration took place around 11:00 AM, with regular services for passengers set to begin on Monday. This new service is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for thousands of daily commuters on this busy route.

The newly launched AC local train features a total of 12 coaches and can accommodate up to 1126 passengers, offering a substantial increase in capacity and comfort. The service will be available from Monday to Saturday, providing a consistent and reliable option for travelers. This new addition represents a significant upgrade from the existing local train services, which frequently experience overcrowding and discomfort, particularly during the summer months.

Initially, the AC local train will not stop at all stations. Its schedule has been meticulously planned to cater to key destinations along the route. Departing from Ranaghat, the train will make stops at Chakdaha, Kalyani, Kanchrapara, Naihati, Barrackpore, Khardaha, Sodepur, Dumdum, and Bidhannagar stations before reaching its final destination at Sealdah. This selective stopping pattern is designed to reduce travel time and make the journey more efficient.

According to the new schedule, the train will depart from Ranaghat station at 8:32 AM, arriving at Sealdah at 10:10 AM. In the evening, the return journey from Sealdah will commence at 6:50 PM, with the train scheduled to arrive at Ranaghat approximately at 8:32 PM. This timing is particularly convenient for office-goers and other regular commuters who travel during peak hours.

The launch of this service is a part of a broader effort to modernize and upgrade railway infrastructure in the region. The state-of-the-art coaches and air-conditioned environment are expected to provide a much-needed respite for commuters, who have long endured crowded and non-AC trains. This development is being hailed as a major step forward in enhancing public transportation in West Bengal and the Eastern region.

The introduction of the AC local train is also expected to ease the pressure on existing train services and provide a more pleasant travel option. With its comfortable seating and climate-controlled environment, it is likely to attract many passengers who previously opted for other modes of transport. This new service is a testament to the ongoing commitment to improving railway facilities for the public.