In a significant step toward modernising suburban rail services, West Bengal received its first fully air-conditioned local train rake on Wednesday. The rake arrived at Ranaghat railway station in the afternoon and is currently stationed there.
While this marks a major milestone for the state, Eastern Railway officials clarified that regular AC local train services in the Sealdah division will begin only after a few more days.
This is the first time that AC local trains are being introduced in West Bengal. Previously, such services were launched in Mumbai—the first city in India to do so— followed by Chennai. The idea of running AC local trains in the Sealdah division had been under consideration for a few years, but the plan was delayed due to various logistical and operational challenges.
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A few weeks ago, Eastern Railway announced plans to operationalise AC local trains in suburban sections under the Sealdah division. However, key details such as exact routes, fare structure and launch date are yet to be finalised. Officials stated that a final decision will be made after carefully assessing operational feasibility, infrastructure readiness, and passenger demand.
The newly arrived AC local is a 12-coach train built with stainless steel and equipped with a host of modern amenities. Key features include four automatic doors per compartment for smooth entry and exit, GPS-controlled passenger information system to provide real-time updates, spacious interiors with designated areas for sitting and standing passengers and sturdy aluminum luggage shelves for convenient storage.
Eastern Railway has said that another AC local rake is expected to arrive soon and preparations are underway to ensure the seamless introduction of these services.
The move is being hailed as a much-needed upgrade for the suburban rail system in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area, promising commuters a more comfortable and efficient travel experience in the near future.
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