A New Era of Connectivity and Economic Growth for Aizawl and Beyond
The Bairabi-Sairang railway line in Mizoram has been officially tried and tested and found fit for operations, marking a significant advancement in the region's connectivity and infrastructure. This 51.38-km project is set to enhance passenger and freight movement while fostering socio-economic development.
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| The Bairabi valley |
June 11, 2025. Union Minister for Railways and Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw celebrated the successful speed trial of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line in Mizoram, emphasising that this monumental achievement represents a crucial leap in linking the state to the very heart of India!
Sharing the update on X, the minister said: "Connecting Mizoram capital (Aizawl) to every heart of India! CRS speed trial of the Bairabi-Sairang new BG line project of Lumding Division - N F Railway."
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| Bairabi Railway Station |
The Bairabi-Sairang railway line in Mizoram has been officially inaugurated, signifying the complete integration of the state into India's national railway network, as stated by an official. This 51.38-km broad-gauge line received final approval following an inspection conducted by the Commission of Railway Safety (CRS). For context, the concept was initiated in 2008, with actual construction commencing in 2015. The total project expenditure amounted to Rs 82,150 million. It is pertinent to note a tragic incident in August 2023, when an under-construction bridge collapsed near Sairang, resulting in the loss of 23 lives.
The railway line is technically safe now. Once the Centre gives its nod, trains will start operating. The formal inauguration is set to take place soon," said Northeast Frontier Railway Chief Public Relations Officer, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, to the media. "The final 33.86-km stretch from Hortoki to Sairang was inspected by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (Northeast Frontier Circle), Sumeet Singhal, between June 6 and 10. This section, which passes through hilly terrain, includes 32 tunnels and 35 major bridges. This milestone completes the entire 51.38-km stretch, bringing direct rail connectivity to Aizawl for the first time."
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| A dream come true |
With the successful completion of the final segment, Mizoram is now fully and seamlessly integrated into the national railway network. This transformative achievement is anticipated to significantly enhance both passenger and freight movement across the region, stimulate substantial socio-economic growth, and fulfil a long-standing aspiration of the local population for improved connectivity.
Until now, Bairabi in the Kolasib district, located near the Assam border, has served as Mizoram’s only rail link. However, the upcoming Sairang station, a satellite town located approximately 20 kilometres from Aizawl, is poised to change this situation dramatically. This new development will provide residents with greater accessibility and opportunities, marking a significant milestone in the region's transportation infrastructure.
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| A terrain view in Kawnpui |
The Bairabi Sairang line is an extraordinary “engineering marvel,” showcasing the remarkable challenges posed by its complex topography and its ambitious design. This extensive project comprises a total of 48 tunnels, which collectively measure an impressive 12,853 metres in length, as well as 55 major bridges and 87 minor bridges. Additionally, it features five road overbridges and six road underbridges, all of which contribute to its intricate design. Notably, Bridge No. 196 stands at a towering height of 104 metres, making it a remarkable 42 metres taller than the iconic Qutub Minar.
This railway line is systematically divided into four distinct segments: Bairabi Hortoki, Hortoki Kawnpui, Kawnpui Mualkhang, and Mualkhang Sairang, each playing a vital role in the region's overall connectivity. The commissioning of this final section marks a crucial milestone toward the operationalisation of regular train services to Aizawl. These services are set to officially commence once CRS Singhal submits his detailed inspection report to the Ministry of Railways and receives the necessary final approval for operation.
The completion of this vital rail link exemplifies Indian Railways’ strong commitment to connecting remote and strategically significant northeastern states with the rest of the country. This initiative underlines the Centre’s unwavering dedication to inclusive and comprehensive infrastructural development, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and economic growth in the region.
Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line
