Has NFR Achieved a Major Milestone with Full Rake Freight Loading in Meghalaya?
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Synopsis
On January 3, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) marked an important achievement by loading its first full freight rake at Mendipathar station in Meghalaya. This groundbreaking operation is set to boost the local economy and improve transport efficiency in the region.
Key Takeaways
- NFR successfully completed the first full freight rake loading in Meghalaya.
- The operation was completed in under nine hours.
- Mendipathar station is now an essential player in freight operations.
- This achievement is set to enhance the local economy.
- Future freight operations are expected to support regional industries.
Guwahati, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has reached an impressive milestone in its freight operations by successfully executing the inaugural loading of a complete freight rake at the Mendipathar railway station in Meghalaya, as reported by officials on Saturday.
The Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, stated that the coal loading operation began on December 28, moving from Mendipathar to Jalalgarh in Purnia district of Bihar. A full rake comprising 42 body covered wagons was loaded in just eight hours and 30 minutes, showcasing excellent planning, teamwork, and the operational efficiency of the railway staff.
This remarkable achievement signifies the first-ever railway freight loading for the state of Meghalaya, as highlighted by CPRO Sharma.
Mendipathar, being the sole station in Meghalaya, marked its presence on the railway freight map with its initial freight unloading on February 4 of the previous year.
Since then, freight unloading operations at Mendipathar have exhibited consistent growth, with a total of 29 mini-rakes and 6 full rakes unloaded, amounting to 20.5 full rakes between February and December 2025.
According to CPRO Sharma, the initiation of freight loading at Mendipathar indicates the station's preparedness to manage large-scale freight traffic effectively.
The freight loading and unloading activities at Mendipathar are anticipated to significantly enhance the local economy of Meghalaya by facilitating the smooth and reliable transportation of goods, especially in hilly and otherwise challenging regions.
These operations will bolster regional industries, enhance market access for local commodities, and enable cost-effective transportation of essential goods, as stated by the CPRO.
The NFR, which is based in Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across various Northeastern states, as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of Bihar.
Point of View
The successful loading of the first full freight rake by NFR reflects significant progress in enhancing transportation infrastructure in Meghalaya, which is crucial for economic development. This achievement aligns with the broader agenda of improving connectivity and accessibility in the Northeast region of India.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the first full rake loading in Meghalaya?
The first full rake loading at Mendipathar station is significant as it marks the beginning of large-scale freight operations in Meghalaya, enhancing the transportation of goods and boosting the local economy.
When did the coal loading operation commence?
The coal loading operation commenced on December 28.
How many full rakes have been unloaded at Mendipathar since February 2025?
A total of 20.5 full rakes have been unloaded at Mendipathar between February and December 2025.
What impact will freight operations have on the local economy?
Freight operations are expected to significantly boost the local economy by facilitating efficient transport of goods, particularly benefiting hilly and remote areas.
Which states does the NFR operate in?
The NFR operates across the Northeastern states, as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of Bihar.
