Historic Milestone for Sevoke: Mahananda Express Makes Maiden Halt; MP Raju Bista Highlights Massive Infra Push

Sevoke, February 16, 2026 — History was scripted at the scenic Sivok Railway Station today as the Sikkim Mahananda Express made its first-ever scheduled halt, marking a new era of connectivity for the region. The flagging-off ceremony, led by Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, drew hundreds of jubilant locals who gathered to witness the long-distance train connect their town directly to the national capital, Delhi.

“This train will connect Alipurduars to Delhi directly,” Bista stated in his X post. “This will immensely benefit the people from Sevoke, Kalijhora, Lohapul, Latpanchar, Sitong, Rambi, Teesta, Lopchu, Peshok, Teesta Valley, Kalimpong, Dooars, and Sikkim.”

Later in the evening, the celebrations expected at Gulma Station, where the Tourist Express (15778) will make its maiden halt at 06:15 PM, further boosting accessibility for the outskirts of Siliguri.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the region, Bista pointed out that Sevoke is rapidly transforming into a pivotal hub for major infrastructure projects. He provided key updates on several high-value developments that are set to reshape the region’s logistics landscape:

• Balason-Sevoke Elevated Highway Corridor: Half of this ambitious project is already under construction, promising to decongest the critical NH-10 stretch.

• Alternative to Coronation Bridge: Work is expected to begin soon on this vital bridge, which will connect Sevoke to Ellenbarie, easing pressure on the heritage structure.

• Siliguri Ring Road: The proposed ring road is designed to pass through Sevoke, integrating it into the city’s expanding urban grid.

• Sevoke-Rangpo Railway Line: Bista confirmed that the highly anticipated rail link to Sikkim is on track to become operational by December 2027.

“Together, these projects are contributing immensely towards the economic growth of our region and transforming infrastructure and connectivity,” the MP noted.

The MP extended his “heartfelt gratitude” to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) for sanctioning these projects. He also credited the “conscious and aware people of the area” whose persistent demands and constructive suggestions played a crucial role in bringing these developments to fruition.

The momentum continues tomorrow, February 17, as three more stations Naxalbari, Adhikari, and Batasi prepare to welcome new stoppages for the Mahananda Express and local DEMU trains, further knitting the region into a cohesive travel network.