Aizawl Not Far From Delhi

The northeastern states are experiencing steady development. Government plans are being implemented. As part of this initiative, Indian Railways is continuously expanding its rail network in the eastern states. This will not only facilitate connectivity but also accelerate tourism, trade, and economic development. This is expected to boost regional GDP by 2-3 percent annually. Following the launch of the Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express by Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday, Bhagalpur was also connected to Mizoram. The Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express, which departed on Saturday, arrived in Bhagalpur on Sunday. Starting September 19th, the train will run regularly from Sairang every Friday and arrive in Bhagalpur every Saturday. This historic moment marks a milestone in Mizoram's connectivity journey and serves as a powerful example of the country's "Act East Policy" being implemented. Built at a cost of ₹8,070 crore, this 51.38-kilometer-long railway line is considered one of the most technically and geologically complex projects in the history of Indian Railways. "The Bairabi-Sairang railway line is Mizoram's new lifeline," he said. The project includes 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges. One of these bridges is 114 meters high, taller than the Qutub Minar. This technological marvel is not only an example of modern engineering but also a symbol of paving the way for development even in difficult geographical conditions. The launch of the Rajdhani Express will connect Aizawl directly to the national capital, Delhi, via rail network. This will not only make travel convenient and easy but will also bring commercial benefits."

It is noteworthy that until now, rail connectivity was only available to Silchar. However, the construction of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line will connect the capital, Aizawl, to the Indian railway network for the first time since independence. Mizoram is the fourth state in the Northeast, after Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Assam, to be directly connected to the rail network. Mizoram's economy has previously relied on road transport. Limited routes and mountainous terrain have consistently posed challenges. The new railway line will alleviate this problem and ensure a smooth supply of food grains, fertilizers, and other essential commodities. This will reduce transportation costs and boost education, health, trade, and tourism. There are plans to extend this railway line to the Myanmar border. This railway line will enable the transportation of goods year-round, significantly reducing dependence on roads. During the rainy season, road connectivity is often cut off due to mountain landslides. This will not only reduce costs, but will also open new markets for agricultural products and create new employment opportunities for the youth. Tourism department officials say this railway line is expected to significantly boost tourism in the state. To promote tourism, IRCTC signed a two-year memorandum of understanding with the Mizoram government last month. Under this agreement, a special tourist train will operate from Guwahati, the capital of Assam, to Aizawl. This will introduce both domestic and foreign tourists to the state's culture and natural beauty. Tourist traffic in the state is gradually increasing. According to tourism department data, while 2.19 lakh tourists visited during the year 2023-24, this number reached 4.70 lakh during the last financial year. Now, with the trains starting operation, this number is expected to increase further.

This will strengthen the Northeast's connection not only to the rest of the country but also to Southeast Asia. This will create new opportunities for international trade and cross-border cooperation. This line will significantly boost local industries, especially bamboo-based products, horticulture, and handicrafts, as these products will now be able to easily reach the country's larger markets. The Indian government is planning to build railway lines near the Chinese border in the Northeast. This aims to improve logistics facilities in these strategically located areas. The project will cost 300 billion rupees (approximately $3.4 billion) and is targeted for completion in four years. Although relations between India and China have improved in recent years, India is pursuing this railway development as part of a long-term strategic plan. After a border dispute five years ago, both countries are now moving towards improved relations due to economic opportunities and changing trade trends under US President Donald Trump's administration. According to reports, the project will construct 500 kilometers of railway track, including bridges and tunnels. This rail network will connect isolated areas bordering China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Bhutan. Its goal is to improve civilian access, logistics capacity, and strengthen military preparedness. Over the past ten years, India has constructed 9,984 kilometers of roads in the Northeast, with an investment of ₹1.07 lakh crore. Additionally, 5,055 kilometers of roads are currently under construction. Additionally, 1,700 kilometers of railway tracks have been built. This infrastructure will enhance the ability to respond quickly during natural disasters or military operations. India has reopened airstrips in the Northeast that were closed since the 1962 war. These are known as Advanced Landing Grounds, which can be used for military helicopters and aircraft. Discussions are also underway to extend a rail line to the LAC in Ladakh. Currently, Indian Railways has reached Baramulla in Kashmir.