What is the status of the Jiribam-Imphal railway project?
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Synopsis
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla reviews the Jiribam-Imphal railway project, which promises to enhance connectivity, boost tourism, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the region. With over 95% progress, the project is nearing completion and will integrate Imphal into the national railway network.
Key Takeaways
- The Jiribam-Imphal railway project aims to connect Imphal to the national railway network.
- It is expected to boost tourism and create job opportunities.
- The project is over 95% complete and is set to finish next year.
- It will significantly enhance connectivity in the Northeastern region.
- Transportation via rail will lower costs and promote trade.
Imphal, Oct 9 (NationPress) The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, conducted a high-level review on Thursday regarding the progress of the Jiribam–Imphal railway project. This significant initiative aims to link the state capital with the national railway infrastructure, according to officials.
During the meeting, representatives from the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) presented a comprehensive overview of the project's current status, highlighting various elements such as alignment, challenges, security concerns, and other pertinent issues.
The newly constructed railway line will not only establish a connection between Imphal and the national railway network but is also poised to greatly improve connectivity and lower transportation expenses.
As per the official report, the railway initiative is anticipated to enhance tourism, foster industrial development, create job opportunities, and contribute to the overall socio-economic advancement of the region.
The meeting included the participation of the Chief Secretary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Principal Secretary (Forest, Environment & Climate Change), Commissioner (Home), Administrative Secretaries, Deputy Commissioners, and various senior officials.
With the completion of the 111-km Jiribam (adjacent to Assam) to Imphal line expected next year, Imphal will join the Indian Railways network, becoming the fifth capital city in the Northeastern region to have a rail link, following Dispur, Agartala, Itanagar, and Aizawl.
An NFR official indicated that the Rs 14,322 crore Jiribam-Imphal railway project has already achieved over 95 percent physical progress.
According to him, the Jiribam-Imphal railway initiative is crucial for improving connectivity in the Northeastern region and is nearing completion. Indian Railways is playing a significant role in transforming the Northeastern states by implementing several new railway projects, with the Jiribam-Imphal link being vital to this development.
Transportation of goods and passengers via rail is expected to lower costs, boost trade, and stimulate investment in industries and infrastructure.
The NFR representative added that this project is likely to create new job opportunities and enhance the overall prosperity of the region.
Moreover, it will act as a critical route in the broader plan to better integrate the Northeastern states with the rest of India, facilitating trade, tourism, and personal interactions.
He also mentioned that the construction of the Jiribam-Imphal railway project includes 11 major bridges and 137 minor bridges, along with multiple tunnels, totaling 61.32 km in tunnel length.
Guwahati, near Assam's Dispur, Agartala in Tripura, and Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh, adjacent to the state capital Itanagar, along with Sairang, close to Mizoram's capital Aizawl, are already integrated into the railway network.
Point of View
It is vital to acknowledge the project’s potential to not only improve connectivity but also stimulate economic activities and create employment opportunities. The government's commitment to enhancing railway infrastructure in this region is commendable, and it aligns with the broader vision of integrating Northeastern states into the national framework.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jiribam-Imphal railway project?
The Jiribam-Imphal railway project is an initiative to connect the state capital of Manipur, Imphal, with the national railway network, enhancing connectivity and reducing transportation costs.
What are the expected benefits of the railway project?
The project is expected to boost tourism, promote industrial development, create job opportunities, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of Manipur.
How much progress has been made on the project?
The Jiribam-Imphal railway project has achieved over 95% physical progress as per the latest reports.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed next year, allowing Imphal to join the Indian Railways network.
How will the railway project impact the region?
The project will facilitate trade, enhance tourism, and improve overall connectivity in the Northeastern region, thereby fostering economic development.
