Aizawl Connected to National Railway Network via New Bairabi-Sairang Line
Mizoram's capital, Aizawl, has achieved a significant connectivity milestone with its linkage to India's national railway network through the newly constructed Bairabi–Sairang line. Following a successful trial run conducted by Northeast Frontier Railway on May 1st to Sairang, a satellite town approximately 20 km from Aizawl, the line is nearing full operational readiness, with a formal inauguration anticipated after June 17th.
Join the Whatsapp Channel to Get News updates in english
New Rail Link Nears Formal Launch
The 51.38-km Bairabi–Sairang New Line project, developed at a revised sanctioned cost of ₹5,021.45 crore, is substantially complete, with officials from the Ministry of Railways reporting 94.52% physical progress. Previously, Bairabi, located near the Assam border, was the only railhead in Mizoram, with the track extending just 1.5 km into the state. The crucial final step before regular train operations can commence is an inspection by the Commission of Railway Safety (CRS), which is scheduled to take place this week. The formal inauguration is expected once this safety audit is successfully concluded.
Strategic Connectivity and Engineering Marvel
This development makes Mizoram the fourth Northeastern state, after Assam, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh, to have its capital city connected by rail. The project was an engineering feat, due to Mizoram's challenging hilly terrain. It involved the construction of 48 tunnels (totaling over 12.8 km) and 142 bridges (55 major and 87 minor), including one bridge standing at a height of 104 meters, significantly taller than the Qutub Minar.
The Bairabi-Sairang project is a key component of a broader, accelerated initiative by the Ministry of Railways aimed at connecting all Northeastern state capitals to the national rail grid, thereby enhancing regional infrastructure and integration.
The imminent full commissioning of the Bairabi–Sairang rail line represents a landmark achievement in improving Mizoram's connectivity and is a testament to India's ongoing commitment to bolstering infrastructure in the strategically important Northeastern region. This new link is expected to significantly contribute to the state's economic development and accessibility.
