Member of Parliament and former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla today unveiled “Vibrant Siliguri – Vision 2047,” a comprehensive roadmap aimed at transforming Siliguri from a transit gateway into a national hub of growth, connectivity and innovation. The vision document was presented at a programme organised by the Siliguri Citizens’ Forum at Hotel Highland on Sevoke Road, in the presence of policymakers, industry representatives, civil society members and citizens.
Highlighting Siliguri’s strategic location as India’s gateway to the North East and its proximity to Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and China, Shringla said the city occupies a central place in India’s Act East Policy, Neighbourhood First approach and Indo-Pacific outlook, making its focused development a national priority. The roadmap outlines priority interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare, urban mobility and border management. Key proposals include establishing a central university and institutions of eminence to address the region’s skilled manpower gap, along with AIIMS-level healthcare facilities to reduce dependence on Kolkata for advanced treatment.
To manage rapid urbanisation, the plan proposes smart city solutions, an MRT-based underground transport system, elevated corridors to protect forest ecosystems and wildlife movement, and cable-car connectivity linking Siliguri with Kurseong and Mirik. The programme also highlighted central investments in highways, NJP railway station modernisation and Bagdogra Airport expansion. Addressing the gathering, Shringla said the vision aims to ensure North Bengal emerges as a growth engine well before 2047. Rajya Sabha MP Sangeeta Yadav described Siliguri as a “Mini India” and said the region should not have to wait until 2047 to realise its full potential.