Aizawl: A new chapter in Northeast connectivity is poised to begin as the 51.38-kilometre Bairabi–Sairang railway line, linking Mizoram’s capital Aizawl to the national network via Silchar, stands completed and ready for its grand unveiling. This long-anticipated corridor, sanctioned way back in 2008–09 and recognised as a project of national importance, represents a significant stride in bolstering infrastructure in the region.
The groundwork for this ambitious undertaking was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. Over the ensuing eleven years, engineers meticulously carved a path through Mizoram’s challenging terrain, constructing an impressive 48 tunnels and numerous bridges, a testament to precision and strategic planning.
Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Chief Signal and Telecommunication Engineer, hailed the Bairabi–Sairang line as a “dream project” for the entire region. Emphasising paramount safety, Chaudhary stated, “The signal design ensures operational security, and once operational, this line will significantly boost tourism in Mizoram. The project is ready. It now depends on the Government of India to announce the date of inauguration.”
Md Zahid Akhtar, Divisional Electrical Engineer, highlighted the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability. “We’ve installed LED lighting inside the tunnels for environmental efficiency. The cables used are low-smoke and non-toxic in case of accidents. Solar power integration is already underway, and we plan to establish a dedicated solar plant soon,” he informed. Upon its operational launch, the Bairabi–Sairang line is anticipated to be a powerful catalyst for economic growth, tourism, and enhanced regional mobility, heralding a new era of progress for Mizoram and the wider Northeast.
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