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Indian Railways is all set to introduce a new Rajdhani Express train after a six-year hiatus, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between the northeastern state of Mizoram and the national capital, Delhi. The much-anticipated train will run between Sairang (near Aizawl) and Anand Vihar Terminal in Delhi, officially flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13, 2025. This new route not only reinforces the iconic Rajdhani Express brand but also bridges a vital gap in the country’s railway network.
Key Highlights of the New Rajdhani Express Launch
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First Rajdhani after six years: The previous Rajdhani Express was launched in 2019 between Mumbai CSMT and Delhi. The new Sairang-Delhi Rajdhani will be the 26th Rajdhani service in India.
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Route and frequency: The train will operate thrice weekly, covering over 2,500 kilometers between Sairang and Anand Vihar Terminal in less than 44 hours.
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First-ever train service connecting Mizoram to Delhi: This is a historic connectivity boost for Mizoram, directly linking its capital region with the heart of the country.
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Inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line: The launch becomes possible due to the newly completed 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang railway, an engineering marvel featuring 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges.
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Construction cost and engineering feats: The line was built at an approximate cost of Rs 8,000 crore, with a total tunnel length of 12,853 meters. One bridge alone stands 104 meters tall, surpassing the height of Delhi’s Qutub Minar by 42 meters.
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Train specifications and speed: Passenger trains on this new line can achieve speeds up to 100 kmph, promising faster and smoother journeys.
Introduction and Historical Importance
The Rajdhani Express trains are a premier category of passenger trains in India, initially introduced in 1969 to connect state capitals with the national capital, New Delhi. Over the past 56 years, the Rajdhani service has become synonymous with speed, efficiency, and comfort, often receiving priority in rail traffic management. Presently, 25 Rajdhani Express trains run across the country, serving major routes. The new Sairang-Delhi Rajdhani marks an important addition that extends the network deeper into the northeast region, opening fresh avenues for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Significance of the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line
The completion of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line is a landmark project for Indian Railways and Mizoram’s infrastructure development. The 51.38-km stretch involved overcoming tough mountainous terrain to lay down a robust rail connection. It comprises:
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48 tunnels to navigate hilly areas
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55 major bridges and 87 minor bridges ensuring stable connectivity across valleys and rivers
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The tallest bridge standing 104 meters high, highlighting the advanced engineering utilized
Built at a significant investment of around Rs 8,000 crore, this new railway line has been designed for high-speed passenger movement up to 100 kmph, reducing travel times substantially.
Route and Operational Details
The Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express will:
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Start from Sairang, near the capital Aizawl in Mizoram
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Cover more than 2,500 km on its journey to Delhi
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Complete travel in under 44 hours
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Operate thrice a week, making rail travel between Mizoram and Delhi accessible and convenient for passengers
This train service will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the strategic importance given to improving northeast connectivity as part of the broader national infrastructure push.
Broader Impact on Northeast and Indian Railways
The Rajdhani Express from Mizoram to Delhi is expected to:
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Provide the northeast region with direct, faster, and more comfortable access to the capital city
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Boost business opportunities by improving freight and passenger flow between these regions
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Promote tourism in Mizoram by simplifying travel logistics for visitors from all over India
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Strengthen socio-economic ties and national integration through seamless connectivity
Closing Remarks
The reintroduction of a new Rajdhani Express after six years, especially one connecting the remote northeast to Delhi, marks a transformative moment for Indian Railways and the people of Mizoram. As the flagship train is set to depart on September 13, 2025, it promises to redefine travel standards while opening new horizons for the region’s growth and integration with the rest of India.
Source: The Indian Express
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