Mizoram: NFR approves Silchar–Sairang railway line; plans extension to Hmawngbuchhuah

Aizawl: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has officially approved the long-awaited Silchar–Sairang railway line via Bairabi, a major boost for Mizoram’s connectivity, officials confirmed on Friday.

The announcement came during a meeting with Jonathan Lalremruata, OSD to the Chief Minister and Mizoram’s representative on the Divisional Railway Users' Consultative Committee (DRUCC).

The project is expected to be virtually inaugurated by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, after the ongoing Parliament session.

NFR also stated that the extension of the Sairang line to Hmawngbuchhuah via Thenzawl (Peace City) has been agreed upon in principle.

The final alignment is being decided, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared.

To encourage tourism, a Vistadome coach is being considered on a trial basis, offering passengers panoramic views of Mizoram’s landscapes.

In a digital initiative, the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system will be integrated with IRCTC. Trains to Sairang will feature QR codes to allow passengers to register for ILPs before entering the state.

NFR is also exploring the possibility of a Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter and parcel services in Aizawl.

For logistics, land in Sairang has been earmarked for a warehouse, which the state government or other agencies may lease for up to 35 years.

Officials added that construction of key facilities, including a merchant room, labour room, toilets, goods office, and sheds, is expected to be completed within the next two to three months.