Image Courtesy of Mizoram Railway Line Inauguration @hindustantimes
In a historic milestone for North-East India, Mizoram has received its first-ever railway line. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the 51.38-kilometer Bairabi–Sairang broad-gauge railway line today, marking a new era of connectivity and economic growth for the state. Constructed by Indian Railways at a cost of over ₹8,000 crore, the project is being hailed as a monumental feat of engineering that connects the state capital of Aizawl directly to the rest of the country for the very first time.
An Engineering Marvel in Challenging Terrain
The Bairabi–Sairang railway line is not just a track; it is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance against the formidable challenges of the mountainous North-Eastern terrain. The project’s construction involved overcoming immense geological and logistical hurdles.
Key features of this engineering marvel include:
- Tunnels and Bridges: The line incorporates an impressive network of 48 tunnels, collectively spanning 12.85 kilometers. It also features 55 major bridges, including the iconic Krung Bridge at Sairang, which stands at a staggering height of 114 meters, making it the tallest in India.
- Access Roads: To facilitate the construction, engineers had to build nearly 200 kilometers of approach roads through the dense forests and steep slopes of the state. These roads were essential for transporting heavy machinery and materials to the construction sites.
“This project is a perfect example of India’s commitment to developing its North-Eastern states,” a railway official said. “It will not only boost trade and tourism but also improve the quality of life for the people of Mizoram by providing a reliable and affordable mode of transport.”
New Train Service to Connect Aizawl to Kolkata
Along with the inauguration of the railway line, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off the Sairang – Kolkata Express, a new train service that will directly link the capital of Mizoram with the cultural hub of Kolkata. This new service, designated as Train Number 13125/13126, is a vital link for the people of Mizoram, offering them seamless travel to one of India’s major metropolitan cities.
The Sairang – Kolkata Express will cover a distance of 1,530 kilometers in approximately 31 hours and 15 minutes. The route will pass through key cities like Naihati, Krishnanagar City, and Murshidabad, providing new connectivity and business opportunities for these regions as well.