The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has given formal approval to the long-awaited Silchar–Sairang railway line via Bairabi, marking a major breakthrough for Mizoram’s transport infrastructure. Officials confirmed the development on Friday (December 5), following a meeting with Jonathan Lalremruata, Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Minister and Mizoram’s representative in the Divisional Railway Users’ Consultative Committee.
The project is slated for virtual inauguration by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw alongside Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma once the ongoing Parliament session concludes. The route is expected to significantly enhance connectivity between Mizoram and the rest of the Northeast, strengthening both passenger movement and freight operations.
NFR has also agreed in principle to extend the Sairang line to Hmawngbuchhuah via Thenzawl, popularly known as Peace City. Officials are currently finalising the route alignment, after which the Detailed Project Report will be prepared. To support tourism, authorities are considering introducing a Vistadome coach on a trial basis, giving travellers sweeping views of Mizoram’s scenic terrain.
In a major digital upgrade, the state’s Inner Line Permit (ILP) system will be integrated with IRCTC, enabling passengers to complete ILP registration through QR codes provided on trains bound for Sairang. The railway is also examining the feasibility of establishing a Passenger Reservation System counter and parcel services in Aizawl to improve accessibility for residents.
For logistics enhancement, land in Sairang is being identified for a new warehouse, which may be leased for up to 35 years to the state government or other agencies. Key infrastructure—including a merchant room, labour room, toilets, goods office and storage sheds—is expected to be completed within the next two to three months, officials added.
