Rs 129.41 cr sanctioned to upgrade Siliguri diesel loco shed: Raju Bista

Member of Parliament from Darjeeling and BJP National Spokesperson Raju Bista on July 14 said that Rs 129.41 crore has been sanctioned for the upgradation and expansion of the Siliguri Diesel Loco Shed, located at Siliguri Junction (SGUJ). Once completed, the upgraded facility will be one of the largest loco sheds in the country, increasing its capacity from 100 to 250 locomotives.

The project will introduce latest maintenance and logistics facilities designed to handle the next-generation Evolution series locomotives. The move aims to strengthen the Northeast Frontier Railway’s capacity in both freight and passenger services, enhancing efficiency and operational output across the region. The shed’s expansion is expected to play a critical role in meeting the growing demands of the rail network that connects Northeast India with the rest of the country.

“The investment of nearly Rs 130 crore will not only modernize railway infrastructure but also create employment opportunities for youths from Siliguri, Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars,” Bista said. He added that the project’s execution will benefit a wide network of MSMEs, transporters, and service providers, triggering a ripple effect in the region’s economic growth.

Siliguri's strategic importance as a rail hub has been long recognized. With the introduction of Wabtec locomotives and the establishment of a modern maintenance depot, the town is set to emerge as a key contributor to the Centre’s “Transformation of the Northeast” vision.

Bista extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their continued focus on rail modernization and infrastructure development in North Bengal. “This project will not only elevate Siliguri’s logistical relevance but also empower the surrounding regions with new opportunities,” he said.