Sikkim is expected to become part of the national rail network by 2024, with about 50% of the work on Sivok-Rangpo railway line completed. The 45km all weather rail line from Silliguri in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim will have 14 tunnels and 22 bridges. There are also plans to extend the rail line up to Gangtok. The rail line gains significance as Sikkim and North Bengal border Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and China.
From Sivok to Rangpo, a car journey takes 3 hours in view of the narrow roads and heavy traffic. The rail line will cut short the timing to one hour. The rail line will especially help in movement of essential commodities, which is otherwise hampered during rough weather due to landslides. There will be three stations at Riyang, Teesta and Melli. Yards for freight are being constructed on the single line route.
