Rails to the Rooftop: Mizoram’s Capital Gets Its First Train Connection

Image Source: The Financial Express

In a milestone for Northeast India, the long-delayed Bairabi–Sairang railway project spanning a decade has finally connected Mizoram's capital, Aizawl, to the national rail network. The 51.38-km broad gauge rail line, touted as an engineering wonder, is slated to be formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2025, marking the realization of a dream that took shape with the laying of the foundation stone of the project in 2014.

Key Highlights:

Engineering Feat: The line features 48 tunnels cumulatively spanning nearly 13 km, 55 major and 87 minor bridges, and a 104-meter-high pier, one of the tallest in the country. Conquering Mizoram's hilly geography, the project was completed in phases over four sections, the last safety clearance for which was given in June 2025.

Strategic Connectivity: Aizawl becomes the fourth Northeast capital—following Guwahati, Itanagar, and Agartala—to be rail-connected, ending years of isolation and opening up new avenues for trade, tourism, and economic development.

Socio-Economic Impact: The new rail link offers faster passenger and freight movement, improved market access, and stimulation of the local economy. It is the core of the government's "Act East" policy, aimed at integrating far-off border states and promoting regional development.

Future Enlargement: Efforts are underway for conducting a survey to expand the line to the India–Myanmar border, potentially opening up new cross-border trade channels and further enhancing Mizoram's strategic significance.

Ready to Launch: With almost 95% physical and 97% financial advancements, the line is ready and waiting for its formal opening, ushering a new era of mobility and opportunity for Mizoram.

Sources: Times of India, India Today NE, Economic Times, Virthli, NewsOnAir