Sukanta Majumdar, the BJP MP of Balurghat whom the party has fielded for the second time in the seat, reached Balurghat railway station with a group of party supporters on Monday afternoon as the Farakka Express departed for Bhatinda in Punjab via Delhi for the first time.

As the train chugged out of the station at 5pm, Majumdar and his associates sprinkled flowers and greeted the passengers on board.

On Sunday, the Northeast Frontier Railway authorities had announced that from today, residents of South Dinajpur district can avail a direct train connecting the national capital. It was a longstanding demand of the district.

“We went to the station today to greet the passengers who took the train to Delhi. It will largely benefit the district as well as people of the neighbouring Malda district,” said Majumdar.

So far, the train used to run between Malda Town and Bhatinda. Ahead of the elections, the extension of the train’s service — it will be a daily service — can boost the BJP that has been steadfastly focusing on the seat.

“The train left the station today and tomorrow, the Prime Minister will address a public meeting on the ground next to the station,” said the BJP candidate.