Guwahati/Aizawl, March 6 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has initiated a transformative measure to enhance parcel logistics by launching refrigerated parcel van services. This service is designed to streamline the transport of horticultural and other perishable goods from Mizoram, thereby broadening market opportunities for local farmers and traders.

NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma stated that the introduction of both passenger and freight train services has significantly revitalized the state's passenger travel and goods transportation.

This advancement not only enhances connectivity but also plays a crucial role in driving economic development and bolstering tourism in the area, as per Sharma's comments.

Recently, the NITI Aayog officially recognized Mizoram as the 'Ginger Capital of India', highlighting the state's notable reputation for producing premium ginger along with its rapid increase in ginger cultivation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the historic 51.38 km Bairabi (near Assam)-Sairang (near Aizawl) railway line on September 13 last year (2025), marking a significant achievement for the residents of the mountainous region.

The CPRO noted that this infrastructure project has successfully placed Aizawl on India's railway map, providing a direct link to the national railway network.

In addition to enhancing transportation, the new railway line is anticipated to generate substantial economic opportunities and foster tourism growth throughout the area, as indicated by Sharma.

Sharma also mentioned that a historic milestone was reached when the first Food Corporation of India (FCI) food grain cargo train arrived at Sairang Railway Station on March 3, 2026.

The cargo train, comprising 42 wagons, transported approximately 25,900 quintals of rice from Punjab, marking a pivotal advancement in strengthening rail-based freight connectivity within the state and improving the supply chain for essential goods.

As per the official report, the newly opened railway line has significantly boosted tourism, with the state experiencing a consistent rise in visitor numbers over the past six months.

Mizoram's railway services achieved another milestone with the arrival of the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train at Sairang Railway Station for the first time on February 12, 2026, as part of the 'North East Discovery' circuit.

Since train services commenced on the Bairabi-Sairang route in September 2025, public response has been extremely positive. The Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express has recorded occupancy levels exceeding 150% in both directions. Similarly, both the Sairang-Guwahati Express and Sairang-Kolkata Express have seen over 100% occupancy rates, showcasing robust demand and strong public acceptance of railway services from Sairang.

On February 9, 2026, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated a new train service from Sairang to Silchar, further enhancing regional connectivity and linking Mizoram with the essential educational, medical, and commercial hub of the Barak Valley in southern Assam.

The NFR CPRO highlighted that freight operations on the Bairabi-Sairang segment have gained considerable traction since its inauguration.

Notably, the first freight rake, containing 21 cement wagons, was successfully transported to Sairang shortly after the inauguration, signaling the commencement of regular freight operations to the state.

Sharma emphasized that the expansion of railway connectivity represents a pivotal moment for Mizoram, stating that by enhancing transportation, stimulating economic development, and boosting tourism, the railways are fundamental to the state's ongoing transformation. As infrastructure progresses, Mizoram is increasingly becoming a more accessible and appealing destination in Northeast India.