Guwahati, March 31 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has marked several remarkable milestones in the financial year 2025-26, demonstrating its dedication to enhancing connectivity, promoting modernisation, improving passenger comfort, and fostering regional development throughout the Northeast, as stated by officials on Tuesday.

NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, reported that as part of its expansion initiative, the railway has launched 20 pairs of new train services, including premium, semi-premium, and conventional trains, which has greatly improved connectivity within the region and to the rest of the country.

In a significant enhancement of operational efficiency, NFR raised the speeds of 35 trains, leading to a total travel time savings of 675 minutes, averaging around 19 minutes less per train.

Additionally, the railway achieved 100% electrification, aligning with Indian Railways’ objectives of sustainable and energy-efficient operations, while also boosting line capacity and enhancing overall train handling efficiency.

The inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line was a historic advancement for Mizoram, with passenger services receiving an enthusiastic response and several trains exceeding 100% occupancy.

Freight operations have also accelerated, encompassing the transport of cement, stone chips, automobiles, and various other commodities.

Significant milestones such as the first inward automobile rake at Sairang, freight operations at Molvom in Nagaland, and the initial full-rake loading at Mendipathar in Meghalaya have notably enhanced regional trade, market accessibility, and economic prospects.

NFR has also made significant strides in infrastructure and modernisation, including the launch of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express connecting Howrah and Guwahati, along with new Amrit Bharat and Linke Hofmann Busch-equipped train services.

The commissioning of the Murkongselek-Sille section will further improve connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh.

Moreover, under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, several stations are undergoing redevelopment with modern amenities.

Haibargaon Railway Station in Assam is developing into a model station, harmoniously integrating modern infrastructure with local heritage, while Kamakhyaguri Railway Station in West Bengal has already been enhanced with improved passenger-friendly facilities.

In tandem with operational advancements, NFR is committed to bolstering healthcare and educational infrastructure by upgrading railway hospitals with cutting-edge equipment and enhancing railway schools with better facilities and digital learning environments.

These initiatives reflect NFR’s comprehensive approach to development, ensuring not just improved passenger services but also enhanced welfare for employees and their families, while fostering inclusive growth throughout the Northeast region, Sharma concluded.