India’s infrastructure network is set for a major boost with the upcoming Kharagpur Siliguri Economic Corridor (EC-14), a 516 km, 4-lane, access-controlled expressway approved by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Also known as the Kharagpur Siliguri Expressway, this mega project forms a vital part of Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-II, aiming to enhance freight efficiency, reduce travel times, and strengthen export logistics through improved port connectivity.
Kharagpur Siliguri Economic Corridor Project at a Glance
- Length: 516 km
- Lanes: 4-lane access-controlled
- Execution Mode: Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)
- Estimated Completion: 2028
- Implementing Agency: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
Kharagpur Siliguri Economic Corridor Route & Key Cities
The expressway will connect Kharagpur in southern West Bengal to Siliguri in the north, passing through:
Kharagpur – Ghatal – Arambagh – Burdwan – Nabadwip – Plassey – Behrampore – Farakka – Malda – Raiganj – Kishanganj – Islampur – Bagdogra.
Sub-Projects Under the Corridor
A major sub-component is the 230 km Kharagpur – Burdwan – Moregram Expressway, approved in August 2024 by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs with an investment of ₹10,247 crore.
It will be constructed in five packages under HAM mode:
- Package 1: Kharagpur to Chandrakona Ghatal Road Crossing (Km 0.000 – Km 41.000) – Details Awaited
- Package 2: Chandrakona Ghatal Road Crossing to Bowaichandi (Km 41.000 – Km 89.814) – Details Awaited
- Package 3: Bowaichandi to Guskara-Katwa Road (Km 89.814 – Km 133.000) – Details Awaited
- Package 4: Guskara-Katwa Road to Mayurakshi Bridge Approach (Km 133.000 – Km 180.000) – Details here
- Package 5: Mayurakshi Bridge Approach to Moregram (Km 180.000 – Km 230.957) – Details here
Project Status
- DPR: Under preparation for most sections
- Land Acquisition: In progress
- Bidding: Technical bids opened for the Kharagpur – Moregram section in September 2024
- Target Completion: 2028 (subject to timely land acquisition & bidding)
Impact on West Bengal
- Faster freight movement between industrial and port hubs
- Improved trade connectivity to Haldia Port & Kolkata Port
- Economic growth for towns along the corridor
- Reduced congestion on existing highways
Conclusion
The Kharagpur – Siliguri Economic Corridor is poised to be a game changer for West Bengal’s road infrastructure. By linking the south to the north via an efficient expressway, it will improve trade, boost regional economies, and strengthen India’s logistics backbone.
References
For more detailed information and official updates on the Kharagpur–Siliguri Economic Corridor under Bharatmala Phase 2, you may refer to the following sources:
- Bharatmala Pariyojana – Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH)
- National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Official Website
- Press Information Bureau – Road Transport & Highways Updates
- Bharatmala Phase 2 Project Details – ET Infra
- West Bengal Government Infrastructure Initiatives
- Assam Government Infrastructure Updates
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