Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Mizoram’s Bairabi-Sairang new rail line, the Rs. 8,070-crore project, connecting Aizawl to India’s railway map. Overcoming the challenging Himalayan terrain, the line promises to boost connectivity, trade, tourism, and opportunities for the people of Mizoram. The launch of three new express trains, Sairang-Delhi Rajdhani express, Sairang-Guwahati Express and Sairang-Kolkata Express marks a new era of connectivity for Mizoram, linking the state directly with major cities.
Introduction:
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Mizoram on September 13, 2025, marks a historic milestone with the inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang rail line and multiple projects worth over ₹9,000 crore. This ambitious initiative promises enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and integration of Mizoram with the national mainstream through world-class infrastructure. Three new train services were also flagged off to increase connectivity to the region and increase opportunities for the people living there.
A landmark event for Mizoram:
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi declared 13 September 2025 a “historic day” for the nation, and especially for Mizoram, as the capital city of Aizawl officially entered India’s railway map and dedicated the completed line to the people of the country. Prime Minister Modi addressed the gathering via video conferencing and expressed regret that he could not join the people of Aizawl.
Despite the formidable challenges of hilly terrain and complex geology, the Rs. 8,070-crore Bairabi–Sairang rail line has become a reality. Modi praised the engineers and workers whose skill and determination made the project possible, highlighting their role in shaping a new chapter for Mizoram’s connectivity.
New Train Services Launched:
Alongside the rail line inauguration, three new train services were flagged off to enhance regional and national connectivity:
- Weekly Rajdhani Express (Sairang–New Delhi): Direct link between Mizoram’s capital and the national capital.
- Tri-weekly Mizoram Express (Sairang–Kolkata): Connecting Aizawl with eastern India’s cultural and commercial hub.
- Daily Aizawl Intercity (Sairang–Guwahati): Strengthening ties with Assam and easing access to educational and business centers.
These services will benefit multiple states including Mizoram, Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.
Transforming the lives of the people:
Calling the new Bairabi-Sairang rail link more than just a transport facility, the Prime Minister described it as a “lifeline of transformation.” For the first time, Mizoram will be directly connected to Delhi through the Rajdhani Express. This landmark service is expected to revolutionize lives in the region by opening opportunities in education, healthcare, trade, and tourism.
Benefits of the Bairabi-Sairang rail line:
- Farmers and entrepreneurs will gain access to larger national markets.
- Students and patients will find easier routes to top universities and hospitals.
- Tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors will generate new employment opportunities.
Marvel of Engineering:
Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, who inspected the site before the inauguration, elaborated on the difficulties faced during construction. Mizoram’s young Himalayan geology posed hurdles due to unstable soil and organic matter. Innovative tunneling methods were required, including solidifying loose sand into rock-like formations before carving safe passages.
The 51.38 km stretch includes:
- 45 tunnels built under fragile conditions.
- 55 major bridges and 88 minor bridges, showcasing engineering resilience.
- Bridge No. 144, India’s second-tallest pier bridge at 114 meters which is 42 meters taller than Delhi’s Qutub Minar.
These structures not only highlight India’s engineering prowess but also symbolize the nation’s commitment to bringing remote regions into the mainstream.
Broader Impact on Northeast India:
The benefits of the project go far beyond passenger travel. Direct rail connectivity is expected to:
- Ensure a reliable supply of essential goods such as food grains and fertilizers.
- Cut travel time between Aizawl and Silchar, improving regional mobility.
- Boost cultural and economic ties with neighboring states and metros.
- Make Mizoram more accessible to domestic and international tourists.
Governor Shri V. K. Singh and Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma joined the ceremony, marking the project as a collaborative success story for state and central governments alike.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang rail line is a defining moment for Mizoram and the Northeast. More than an engineering achievement, it is a promise of prosperity, inclusivity, and opportunity. With Aizawl now firmly on India’s railway map, the state is poised to embrace a future of growth and connectivity.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Images Source: MoR
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