Passenger and freight traffic surge following inauguration of Mizoram's Bairabi–Sairang railway line

Mizoram has recorded a notable surge in both passenger and freight traffic following the inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang railway line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13, marking a historic leap in the state’s connectivity and trade potential.

According to railway officials, the newly inaugurated line began freight operations immediately after its launch, enabling smooth transportation of essential commodities and construction materials to and from the state. The inauguration also coincided with the introduction of three major passenger train services — the Aizawl–Delhi Rajdhani Express (Anand Vihar Terminal), Aizawl–Kolkata Express, and Aizawl–Guwahati Express — providing Mizoram’s residents with direct access to key metropolitan cities.

Local commuters and traders have hailed the new railway connectivity as a milestone in Mizoram’s development, calling it safe, affordable, and efficient, particularly in easing the movement of goods and passengers across challenging terrains.

The Bairabi–Sairang railway project, whose foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Modi on November 29, 2014, was completed at an estimated cost of ₹8,071 crore. The 51.37 km rail stretch is a feat of modern engineering, featuring 45 tunnels, including the longest tunnel measuring 12.853 km, and 143 bridges — 55 major and 88 minor.

Among these, the bridge over the Kulung River, standing at 114 metres, is the second-highest railway bridge in India, symbolizing the ambitious infrastructural strides being made in the Northeast under the government’s Act East Policy.

Officials further added that the project is expected to enhance trade connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost tourism and employment opportunities, transforming Mizoram into a vital logistical link between India’s northeastern region and Southeast Asia.