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In a historic development marking a major boost for Northeast connectivity, Indian Railways has launched the first-ever direct train service between Sairang near Aizawl in Mizoram and Kolkata, West Bengal. The Sairang-Kolkata Express represents an unprecedented rail link between Mizoram and the rest of India, improving accessibility and accelerating economic and cultural exchange. This new train service debuted on September 13, 2025, heralding a new era of convenient and direct travel for citizens of two key Indian regions.
Key Highlights Of The Newly Inaugurated Sairang-Kolkata Train Service
Historic Launch: The Sairang-Kolkata Express began operations with Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagging off the first train on September 13, 2025. The event symbolized India’s growing focus on infrastructural integration of the Northeast with the rest of the country.
Distance And Journey Time: The train covers approximately 1481 to 1530 kilometers, depending on the route segment, in about 31 hours and 15 minutes, making long-distance rail travel more seamless.
Weekly Frequency: Operating thrice a week in each direction, the train balances connectivity and operational efficiency for passengers traveling between Mizoram and Bengal.
Train Composition: The train boasts 22 coaches, including AC Two-tier, AC Three-tier, AC Three-tier Economy, Sleeper class, General Second class, Luggage cum Generator Car, and SLRD coach, providing diverse options suiting various budgets.
Operated By Eastern Railway Zone: Maintenance and operations are handled efficiently by the Eastern Railway zone, ensuring passenger service quality.
Route And Major Stoppages:
Starting from Sairang (Mizoram), it passes through important stations like Bairabi, Hailakandi, Badarpur Junction, New Haflong, Hojai, Guwahati, Kamakhya Junction, Goalpara Town, Abhayapuri, Bilasipara, Gauripur, Golakganj.
It continues towards New Cooch Behar, New Jalpaiguri, Malda Town, New Farakka, Jangipur Road, Azimganj, Murshidabad, Berhampore Court, Krishnanagar City, Naihati before reaching Kolkata.
Departure and Arrival Timings:
Train number 13125 (Kolkata to Sairang) departs Kolkata at 12:25 PM and arrives in Sairang at 7:45 PM the following day.
Train number 13126 (Sairang to Kolkata) leaves Sairang at 7:15 AM, reaching Kolkata at 2:30 PM the next day.
Passenger Convenience: Direct connectivity cuts down on cumbersome transit requirements, offering comfort and saving significant travel time compared to previous multi-leg or road journeys.
Regional Economic Impact: The train is poised to boost tourism, business opportunities, freight movement, and overall regional development, fulfilling long-standing demands for better transport links.
Infrastructure Background: The launch follows the completion of the 51.38-km Bairabi-Sairang broad gauge railway line, a vital segment financed under India’s 'Act East Policy' that integrates Mizoram with the national railway network.
Further Connectivity Efforts: Complementing this train, a weekly Rajdhani Express linking Sairang to Delhi’s Anand Vihar Terminal started recently, expanding Mizoram’s northeast and national reach.
Significance Of The New Rail Link For Mizoram And Bengal
The Sairang-Kolkata Express ends historical isolation, finally connecting Mizoram’s capital region seamlessly to one of India’s largest metro hubs, Kolkata. Apart from personal travel convenience, this connection is expected to encourage cultural exchanges, trade growth, and improved supply chains between the eastern and northeastern states.
This express service is a major step towards national integration plans designed to uplift the socio-economic profile of distant Northeastern states through better transportation arteries and connectivity.
Looking Ahead: Expectations And Passenger Advice
As bookings open and passenger awareness spreads, demand for the Sairang-Kolkata train is anticipated to grow significantly. Prospective travelers should note the train's schedule and book ahead given its weekly frequency. Railways authorities are also expected to monitor operations closely and introduce additional services or frequency adjustments based on demand patterns.
In Conclusion
The launch of the Sairang-Kolkata Express is a milestone in India's transportation history, linking erstwhile remote Mizoram with bustling Bengal rail networks. This direct rail corridor promises enhanced mobility, communal ties, and economic prosperity. For passengers and regional stakeholders alike, the new train is a beacon of connectivity and development.
Sources: Indian Express, Times Now News, Wikipedia, Economic Times, NDTV, Swarajya Magazine, The Daily Jagran
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