Bongaon-Bagda Rail Link Approved, But Land Dispute Looms Large

• Indian Ministry of Railways approves Bongaon-Bagda railway link, announced by Bongaon MP Shantanu Thakur.
• The project, initially stalled since 2019 due to land disputes, sees renewed approval after MP Thakur's efforts.
• Three new lines (Bongaon-Poramaheshtala, Bongaon-Chanda, Chandabazar-Bagda) aim to boost connectivity, economy, and daily commute.
• Central government shifts responsibility to the state for land acquisition, making state government's decision crucial.
• Locals in border areas express hope for the operationalization of the long-awaited railway line.

Why It Matters: Bongaon-Bagda rail link gets approval, but its implementation hinges on resolving persistent land disputes.