Sun Sep 07 07:38:17 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Eastern Railway’s Sealdah Division in West Bengal, India, has launched two new air-conditioned (AC) local trains, increasing the state’s total to three. These trains, servicing the Ranaghat-Sealdah via Bangaon and Krishnanagar-Sealdah routes, are intended to modernize suburban travel, provide greater comfort, and address passenger demand for better travel conditions, especially during hot and humid weather. The service has been well-received by commuters who are willing to pay slightly higher fares for the enhanced comfort.

**News Article:**

**West Bengal Commuters Beat the Heat with New AC Local Trains**

**Kolkata, India – September 7, 2025** – Commuters in West Bengal can now breathe a sigh of relief, literally, as the Eastern Railway’s Sealdah Division introduced two new air-conditioned (AC) local trains this week. This brings the state’s total number of AC local services to three, marking a significant step towards modernizing suburban travel and providing much-needed respite from the region’s sweltering climate.

The new trains operate on the Ranaghat-Sealdah via Bangaon and Krishnanagar-Sealdah routes, addressing a long-standing demand for enhanced passenger comfort, particularly on the notoriously crowded Bangaon-Sealdah line.

“This introduction of AC EMU services is a pivotal moment for the Eastern Railway’s Sealdah Division,” said a railway official. “It addresses a long-standing demand for enhanced passenger comfort and improved travel conditions.”

The first AC local train in the Sealdah Division, and West Bengal’s first, was launched on August 11. The new additions have already garnered positive responses, with high occupancy rates indicating a strong demand for the premium service.

“We never thought our line could have such facilities,” exclaimed a passenger on his first AC train ride. “In this hot and humid weather, this is a welcome change. It will help families access affordable and comfortable transport.”

While the fares are slightly higher than traditional trains, passengers are reportedly willing to pay the premium for the added comfort, especially during the peak summer months. This initiative marks a commitment from the Eastern Railway to improve the commuting experience for millions of daily travelers in the region.

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