Mizoram is poised to mark a new chapter in its history with the arrival of its first Rajdhani Express, coinciding with the completion and imminent inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line. Chief Minister Lalduhoma has been a strong advocate for enhanced rail connectivity and has urged the Union Government to introduce the Rajdhani Express, connecting Sairang to New Delhi.
The completion of the 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang broad gauge railway line is a major milestone for the northeastern state, integrating Mizoram more fully into the national railway network. The project, which links Aizawl to the railway grid via Silchar, includes 48 tunnels and numerous bridges, overcoming the region's challenging terrain. The railway line was sanctioned in 2008-09 and later declared a National Project. The foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 29, 2014.
The Bairabi-Sairang line connects the capital city Aizawl directly to the Indian railway network. Previously, the railway line extended only up to Bairabi, and further travel to Aizawl was only possible via road, a route often affected by landslides and weather disruptions. With the completion of this line, direct rail connectivity from cities like Silchar and Guwahati to Aizawl will now be possible, reducing both travel time and logistical challenges. Travel time between Silchar and Aizawl, which currently takes around eight hours by road, will be reduced to just three hours by train. Similarly, road travel from Guwahati to Aizawl, which typically takes 14-18 hours, will now be completed in about 12 hours by rail.
The new line features four newly constructed stations in Mizoram: Hortoki, Kawnpui, Mualkhang, and Sairang. It is expected to ease passenger travel and significantly boost tourism and trade in the region.
Mizoram's capital, Aizawl, has become the fourth capital city in the Northeast to gain rail connectivity, following Guwahati, Agartala, and Itanagar. The project has been completed in four sections: Bairabi–Hortoki, Hortoki–Kawnpui, Kawnpui–Mualkhang and Mualkhang–Sairang. The project includes 48 tunnels with a combined length of 12,853 meters, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges. One of the standout structures is Bridge No. 196, which rises to 104 metres, taller than Delhi's Qutub Minar.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma has also emphasized the need for direct railway services from Kolkata's Howrah station to Sairang, as well as a new rail link between Mizoram and neighboring Tripura. He has appealed for the development of a world-class railway station in Sairang, equipped with a Railway Reservation Centre, Parcel Management System, and internet services. Lalduhoma also highlighted the importance of giving employment priority to local residents at railway stations in Mizoram, specifically naming Hortoki, Kawnpui, Mualkhang, and Sairang.
The formal inauguration is expected to take place soon, possibly after June 17, pending final clearance from safety authorities. Once operational, the Bairabi–Sairang railway line is expected to be a game-changer for Mizoram. The improved connectivity will enhance access to essential supplies, promote long-distance travel, and significantly reduce transportation costs. The line is also projected to boost local tourism, stimulate small-scale industries, and drive socio-economic development across the region.
