Guwahati: In a significant boost to rail connectivity in the Northeast, the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Northeast Frontier Circle, Sumeet Singhal has authorised train operations on the newly constructed Murkongselek–Sille section of the Murkongselek–Pasighat New Rail Project. The 15.70-km broad-gauge section received clearance following detailed inspection and successful speed trials conducted on February 12 and 13.
The CRS has approved train movement on the route at a maximum permissible speed of 110 kmph, paving the way for improved passenger and freight movement in the region. The authorised section forms part of the 26.15-km Murkongselek–Pasighat new railway line, which connects Murkongselek in Assam with Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.
Also Read: OIL Strengthens Rural Economy Through Project Rupantar
The project includes three newly developed stations—Sille, Labo and Pasighat—and features 27 major bridges. Once fully commissioned, the line is expected to significantly enhance rail-based transportation capacity, facilitating smoother movement of goods and passengers between Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and the rest of the country.
Arunachal Pradesh’s capital was first linked to the national broad-gauge network in March 2014 with the commissioning of the Harmuti–Naharlagun line, followed by the introduction of passenger services and a direct AC Express to New Delhi in 2015.
The Murkongselek–Pasighat project will further strengthen this connectivity by extending long-distance rail services to Pasighat via Rangiya, Murkongselek and the Bogibeel Bridge. Improved rail infrastructure is expected to reduce travel time and logistics costs, ensure reliable supply of essential commodities, boost tourism, and support economic growth by encouraging regional trade and small-scale industries in Arunachal Pradesh.
