How Are New Freight and Passenger Trains Enhancing Connectivity in the Northeast?
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Synopsis
Explore how the Indian Railways is transforming the northeastern region's connectivity with new freight and passenger train services. Discover the economic benefits and opportunities arising from these developments.
Key Takeaways
- New freight operations launched from Nagaland enhance logistics.
- Mizoram linked to the railway network for the first time.
- Complex engineering challenges overcome with bridges and tunnels.
- Significant budget increase for Northeast railway projects.
- New train services promise economic growth.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) In a significant step towards enhancing connectivity in the northeastern region, Indian Railways has initiated freight train services from Nagaland, shortly after the successful introduction of train services in Mizoram.
In September, the Ministry of Railways launched freight train operations from Molvom station in Nagaland, with the inaugural rake, consisting of 41 wagons carrying cement from Telangana, arriving at Molvom station on September 24. This was succeeded by the first outward rake departing Molvom on September 29, transporting 42 wagons of stone chips to Jirania in Tripura.
Efforts are ongoing by Indian Railways to extend the rail line to the state capital Kohima, under the Dimapur–Kohima (Dhansiri–Zubza) rail line project. While the stretch to Molvom is finished, the final segment to Zubza, near Kohima, is slated for completion by December 2029.
Mizoram was incorporated into the Indian Railways network following the inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13.
This project, costing over Rs 8,000 crore, spans 51 kilometers and for the first time links Aizawl to the national railway grid. Alongside this, the PM launched three new train services from Sairang to Delhi (Rajdhani Express), Kolkata (Mizoram Express), and Guwahati (Aizawl Intercity).
The railway line traverses challenging terrain, with engineers constructing 143 bridges and 45 tunnels to connect Mizoram. One of these bridges surpasses the height of the Qutub Minar. In such rugged landscapes, the railway line is predominantly structured as alternating bridges and tunnels.
In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East policy, the railway budget for the Northeast region has seen a five-fold increase compared to the 2009-14 period. This fiscal year, an allocation of Rs 10,440 crore has been made, with a total budgetary provision from 2014 to 2025 amounting to Rs 62,477 crore. Railway projects worth Rs 77,000 crore are currently underway in the region.
“The increasing demand for both passenger and freight services highlights how railway connectivity is revolutionizing lives in the Northeast. Beyond mere convenience, these new links are set to drive economic growth, improve market access for local products, and create fresh trade and employment opportunities,” stated an official.
Point of View
My perspective aligns with the nation's commitment to improving infrastructure. The recent advancements in railway connectivity in the Northeast reflect a broader vision of growth, stability, and unity, essential for our diverse nation.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What new railway projects are underway in Northeast India?
The Indian Railways has launched new freight train operations from Nagaland and has initiated passenger services connecting Mizoram to the national railway network.
How does the new railway connectivity impact local economies?
The enhanced railway connectivity is expected to boost economic growth by providing better market access for local products and creating new employment opportunities.
When is the Dimapur-Kohima rail line expected to be completed?
The final segment of the Dimapur-Kohima rail line is projected for completion by December 2029.
What challenges did engineers face in constructing the Mizoram railway line?
Engineers faced difficult terrain, requiring the construction of 143 bridges and 45 tunnels to ensure connectivity through rugged landscapes.
What is the significance of the Act East policy for Northeast rail projects?
Under the Act East policy, the railway budget allocation for the Northeast has increased significantly, enabling the development of vital infrastructure in the region.
