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18 January 2026|The Indian Express
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EconomyPolity & GovernanceNEWS

West Bengal Infrastructure Boost: Projects Worth Over ₹830 Crore Launched

Infrastructure projects worth over ₹830 Crore launched in West Bengal's ports, waterways, and rail sectors.

Background Context

The development of ports and waterways in India has a long history, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization, where Lothal served as a major port. During the Mauryan and Gupta periods, maritime trade flourished, connecting India with Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Roman Empire. The British colonial era saw the development of major ports like Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, primarily to facilitate the export of raw materials. Post-independence, India has focused on modernizing its port infrastructure and expanding inland waterways to reduce logistics costs and enhance trade competitiveness. The National Waterways Act, 2016, declared several rivers as national waterways, aiming to promote inland water transport.

On 18 January 2026, infrastructure projects worth over ₹830 Crore were launched in West Bengal, focusing on ports, shipping, inland waterways, and rail sectors. These projects include laying the foundation stone for an Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh, launching an electric catamaran at Kolkata, inaugurating a new rail line between Jayrambati and Maynapur, and flagging off Amrit Bharat Express trains from Kolkata to various destinations. The initiatives aim to enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, promote tourism, and boost employment in the region.

Key Facts

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Project cost: Over ₹830 Crore

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Sectors: Ports, shipping, inland waterways, rail

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Electric Catamaran: Kolkata

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New Rail Line: Jayrambati-Maynapur

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on port-led development under the Sagarmala Programme, aiming to modernize ports, improve connectivity, and promote coastal industrialization. The Jal Marg Vikas Project is focused on enhancing the navigability of the Ganga River. The government is also investing in the development of inland waterways terminals and promoting public-private partnerships in port infrastructure projects. The use of technology, such as automation and digitalization, is being encouraged to improve port efficiency. The focus is also on green initiatives, such as promoting the use of renewable energy and reducing emissions from port operations.

3 Key Concepts to Understand

This article covers important concepts like Infrastructure Development, Ports and Shipping and 1 more. Understanding these will help you answer exam questions better.

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