The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) successfully conducted the first-ever trial run to Sairang, near Aizawl in Mizoram, on May 1, paving the way for the state’s capital to be connected to the national railway grid.
Officials from NFR confirmed that Mizoram now becomes the fourth northeastern state with rail connectivity to its capital, marking a milestone in improving regional access and infrastructure. Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, said the trial was overseen by General Manager (Construction) Arun Kumar Chaudhary along with other senior officials. Following the successful run, Chaudhary briefed the Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, and Chief Minister Lalduhoma on the Bhairabi-Sairang railway project’s progress, challenges, and potential economic impact. He added that the Commissioner of Railway Safety is scheduled to inspect the line in early June, with formal inauguration likely post-June 17.
The Bhairabi–Sairang railway project stretches 51.38 kilometres and is considered an engineering marvel. It includes 48 tunnels, 55 major and 87 minor bridges, five road over-bridges, and six road under-bridges. Notably, Bridge No. 196 stands at 104 metres—42 metres taller than Delhi’s Qutub Minar. The total tunnel length across the line is 12,853 metres. The rail line is segmented into four sections—Bhairabi to Hortoki, Hortoki to Kawnpui, Kawnpui to Mualkhang, and Mualkhang to Sairang—each constructed through challenging terrain.
NFR officials say the project will boost tourism, support small-scale industries, reduce transport costs, and enhance access to goods and essential services in Mizoram. Once operational, it is expected to significantly shorten travel time between the state and other parts of India.
