India to Build 40 KM Underground Rail in 'Chicken Neck' to Counter China-Bangladesh Threat

• Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a 40-kilometer underground rail line in West Bengal's Siliguri Corridor, known as the 'Chicken Neck'.
• The project aims to strengthen connectivity between India's northeastern states and the rest of the country, countering threats from China and Bangladesh.
• The underground track, approximately 25 meters deep, will run between Three Mile Hat and Rangapani railway stations, providing safe and fast connectivity.
• This strategic railway line will facilitate movement for both the army and common citizens, especially during crises, and boost economic development.
• The project, estimated to cost around 20,000 crore rupees, is expected to take 5 to 10 years to complete, despite higher costs and construction time for underground lines.

Why It Matters: India is building a 40 km underground rail line in the strategic 'Chicken Neck' to secure northeastern connectivity.