Farakka track subsidence disrupts train services to north Bengal

Railway services to north Bengal and the northeast have been severely affected after land subsidence was reported under tracks near Farakka in Murshidabad district. The first instance was noticed on September 3, with a more significant subsidence occurring the following day, forcing authorities to undertake extensive repair work.

The subsidence has not only damaged the tracks but also impacted overhead electric lines and signalling systems, complicating restoration efforts. Divisional Railway Manager Rajeev Saxena attributed the incident to heavy flooding that caused the ground beneath the tracks to give way. Teams are working round the clock to restore normal operations.

Several key trains, including the Uttarbanga Express, Kanchankanya Express, Darjeeling Mail, Padatik Express, Balurghat Express, and the New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat Express, have been cancelled. Some services have been diverted, leading to significantly longer journey times. The cancellations are expected to continue through September 5.

These trains are vital for local commuters and tourists heading to popular destinations in the hills. Their absence has placed a heavy burden on road transport. In response, the state government has deployed additional buses on routes such as Kolkata-Siliguri and Siliguri-Kolkata.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari held an emergency meeting to review the situation. He stated that food and water are being provided to passengers on trains stranded in Malda and Murshidabad. District magistrates have been instructed to arrange accommodation if the situation does not improve by night.

Transport Minister Arjun Singh has directed the department to increase bus frequency. Officials have also asked private operators not to hike fares unfairly during the disruption. Passengers are advised to check their train's status before travelling and are being assisted with refunds for cancelled tickets.