Bairabi-Sairang Rail line: Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl, will link to India’s railway network for the first time via the 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang line. The line has finished construction and passed a safety inspection ahead of a possible July inauguration by the Prime Minister.
Engineered Through Challenging Terrain
Engineers built 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges across the hilly route to Sairang, located about 20 km from Aizawl. The project overcame challenges like heavy rainfall and landslide risks. The Commissioner of Railway Safety completed speed trials, approving operations up to 90 km/h between Hortoki and Sairang.
Integration with National Rail Network
This rail project marks Mizoram’s first capital (or fourth capital if considering other NE states connected) to get connected by rail in the Northeast. Aizawl will now link directly to Silchar and beyond. The foundation stone was laid by the Prime Minister in 2014, and the line secured “Project of National Importance” status under India’s PM-Gati Shakti vision.
Economic Uplift and Tourism Boost
The new rail connection will ease the movement of people and goods. It promises faster, safer access to Aizawl and nearby highways. Local businesses and tourism stand to gain from easier access. Vibrant murals reflecting Mizo culture decorate the tunnels, offering a cultural welcome to rail travelers.
What Commuters Should Know
Passengers traveling from Silchar or Guwahati can expect travel time to Aizawl to drop from around 14–18 hours by road to roughly 12 hours by train. Once the inauguration takes place this July, Sairang station will serve as a modern railhead just 12 km from the state capital.
