Siliguri Corridor is a narrow stretch of land in West Bengal. It connects India’s mainland to the northeastern states. Often called the “Siliguri Corridor Chicken Neck”, this strip of land is both important and vulnerable. It carries trade, transport, and military movements. 

The corridor also links cultural and social connections between the northeast and the rest of India. In 2025, the corridor gained more attention due to its strategic significance. A clear understanding of its location, length, width, and importance is necessary to appreciate its role in India’s national security and development.

Siliguri Corridor Geographical Overview

The Siliguri Corridor is located entirely in the state of West Bengal. It stretches from the city of Siliguri to the borders of Assam and other northeastern states. The Siliguri Corridor serves as the main land route connecting India to its northeastern region. 

The strip is roughly 200 kilometers long and only 20 to 22 kilometers wide at its narrowest point. And it is because of its narrow shape that it is sometimes referred to as the Siliguri Corridor Chicken Neck.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

The corridor is next to Nepal on the west, Bhutan on the north, and Bangladesh on the south. This makes it very important and sensitive. A Siliguri Corridor map shows it as a thin strip of land that connects the rest of India to the northeast. Because it is between other countries, any problem here could cut off the northeastern states from the mainland.

Historical Background of Siliguri Corridor

The corridor became very important after India was divided in 1947. When East Bengal became East Pakistan, the northeast of India got separated from the rest of the country. This made the Siliguri Corridor the only land route to reach the northeast. Later, when Sikkim joined India, the northern part of the corridor got bigger, making it even more important.

Historically, it has been a point of concern during conflicts. Controlling this narrow strip could affect access to the entire northeast region. Over the decades, governments have recognized the need to strengthen security and infrastructure in this area.

Strategic Importance of the Siliguri Corridor

The Siliguri Corridor is an important link connecting India’s northeast to the mainland. It is crucial for defense, trade, and connectivity. 

First, it is the only land route that connects the main part of India to the northeast. Almost all goods, people, and services travel through this corridor. If something goes wrong here, it can affect trade, daily life, and important supplies in the northeast.

Second, it is very important for the military. The corridor is near international borders, including the Chumbi Valley close to China and Bhutan. In case of a conflict, controlling this corridor is important to keep the northeast safe. Its narrow shape makes it easy to block but hard to protect.

Third, the corridor is a key part of transportation. Roads and railways passing through it connect Siliguri to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and other states. Better roads and trains help move troops and goods quickly and safely.

Also, because it is close to other countries, India needs to watch it carefully. Building better roads, railways, and other infrastructure helps protect this narrow but very important piece of land.

Here is information on the strategic significance of the Siliguri Corridor:

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

Why Siliguri Corridor is in the News & Recent Developments

In 2025, several developments have highlighted the strategic significance and vulnerabilities of the Siliguri Corridor. All of this has also led to the Siliguri Corridor being in the news recently: 

• China’s Growing Influence: Reports indicate that China is increasing its presence in neighboring countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. This expansion poses potential strategic challenges for India, particularly concerning the Siliguri Corridor.
• Bangladesh’s Remarks: Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, referred to India’s Northeast as “landlocked,” implying its dependence on transit routes through Bangladesh. These comments have sparked diplomatic responses from India, underscoring the corridor’s strategic importance.
• Security Threats: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has raised concerns over potential security threats from Bangladeshi radical elements targeting the Siliguri Corridor. Reports of propaganda and alleged arms training in the region have heightened these concerns.
• Infrastructure Developments: India is undertaking initiatives to enhance the security and connectivity of the corridor. This includes the construction of a six-lane expressway from Gorakhpur to Siliguri, aiming to improve transportation and logistics.

Ready to boost your UPSC 2026 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

DOWNLOAD PDF