NewKerala.com

Key Points

Indian Railways has started freight operations from Nagaland with cement and stone chip shipments moving across states. Mizoram just got connected to the national rail network with a massive 51-kilometer project costing over Rs 8,000 crore. The new line features incredible engineering with bridges taller than Qutub Minar and numerous tunnels through challenging terrain. These developments are part of a massive Rs 77,000 crore investment in Northeast railway infrastructure under the Act East policy.

Key Points: Indian Railways Launches Nagaland Freight Mizoram Passenger Trains

  • First freight train from Nagaland carried 41 cement wagons from Telangana to Molvom station
  • New Mizoram rail line features 143 bridges and 45 tunnels through difficult terrain
  • Three new passenger trains connect Aizawl to Delhi Kolkata and Guwahati directly
  • Railway budget for Northeast increased five-fold with Rs 77000 crore projects underway
2 min read

New freight, passenger trains enhance connectivity in northeast

New freight operations begin in Nagaland while passenger trains connect Mizoram to Delhi, Kolkata & Guwahati, boosting Northeast connectivity & economy

"The growing demand for both passenger and freight services showcases how railway connectivity is transforming lives in the Northeast - Official Statement"

New Delhi, Oct 4

As part of the expanding connectivity in the northeastern region, the Indian Railways has started freight train operations from Nagaland, which comes close on the heels of the successful launch of train services in Mizoram.

In September, the Ministry of Railways commenced freight train operations from Molvom station in Nagaland with the first rake, comprising 41 wagons of cement from Telangana, arriving at Molvom station in the state on September 24. This was followed by the first outward rake leaving Molvom on September 29, with 42 wagons of stone chips for Jirania in Tripura.

Indian Railways is working to extend the rail line to the state capital, Kohima, with the Dimapur–Kohima (Dhansiri–Zubza) rail line project. While a section up to Molvom is complete, the final phase to Zubza near Kohima is projected for completion by December 2029.

Mizoram was linked to the Indian Railways network after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bairabi-Sairang railway line project on September 13.

Built at a cost of over Rs 8,000 crore, this 51-kilometre project connects Aizawl to the national railway network for the first time. Along with this, the PM flagged off three new train services from Sairang to Delhi (Rajdhani Express), Kolkata (Mizoram Express) and Guwahati (Aizawl Intercity).

This railway line passes through difficult terrain. Railway engineers have built 143 bridges and 45 tunnels to connect Mizoram. One of the bridges is taller than Qutub Minar. In fact, in this terrain, like in all other Himalayan lines, the railway line is practically built as a bridge followed by a tunnel followed by a bridge and so on.

As part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East policy, the railway budget allocation for the North East region has increased five-fold compared to the 2009-14. This fiscal year alone, Rs 10,440 crore has been allocated. Total budgetary allocation from 2014 to 2025 is Rs 62,477 Crore. Railway projects worth Rs 77,000 crore are underway in the region.

“The growing demand for both passenger and freight services showcases how railway connectivity is transforming lives in the Northeast. Beyond convenience, these new links promise economic growth, better market access for local products, and new opportunities for trade and employment,” according to an official statement.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Building railways in such difficult terrain is an engineering marvel! 143 bridges and 45 tunnels - our engineers deserve all the praise. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
A
Arjun K
While I appreciate the development, I hope the environmental impact is being properly assessed. The Northeast has fragile ecosystems that need protection.
S
Sarah B
As someone who travels frequently to the Northeast for work, this connectivity will make such a difference. The Rajdhani Express to Delhi from Mizoram is a game-changer!
V
Vikram M
Better late than never! The Northeast has been neglected for too long. This will boost tourism and create employment opportunities for local youth.
M
Michael C
The freight connectivity from Nagaland to Tripura shows how strategic this development is. It will reduce transportation costs significantly for businesses across the region.
A
Ananya R
My cousin in Aizawl is so excited about the train connectivity! No more 12-hour bus rides to Guwahati. This is truly life-changing for people in the Northeast. 🙏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50