New Delhi (Delhi) [India], December 15 (HBTV): Sairang Railway Station in Mizoram has handled its first-ever direct inward automobile rake, with 119 cars transported by rail from Changsari near Guwahati, marking a milestone for the state’s transport and logistics sector.
The movement is expected to enhance vehicle availability in Aizawl, reduce dependence on long-distance road transport, and benefit Mizoram’s automobile ecosystem, including dealers, service providers, and customers. The development has been described as a significant step in the state’s infrastructural and economic progress.
According to an official press release issued by the Ministry of Railways, the achievement reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to expanding connectivity, supporting regional development, and promoting inclusive growth across the country.
The Ministry noted that the Bairabi–Sairang railway line represents a major infrastructure milestone for Mizoram. Built through challenging terrain, the 51.38-km line passes through 45 tunnels and plays a critical role in strengthening the region’s integration with the rest of India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the railway line on September 13. During the event, he flagged off the Rajdhani Express between Aizawl (Sairang) and Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal), the Mizoram Express between Aizawl (Sairang) and Guwahati, and an express train connecting Aizawl (Sairang) with Kolkata, marking Mizoram’s full integration into the national rail network.
Passenger response to the new train services has been reported as encouraging. The Ministry stated that all three trains are operating with high occupancy levels, with the Sairang–Anand Vihar Terminal Rajdhani Express recording 147 per cent occupancy, the Sairang–Guwahati Mizoram Express 115 per cent, and the Sairang–Kolkata Express 139 per cent. Passengers have reportedly found the services convenient and cost-effective, resulting in significant time savings.
The press release further stated that improved rail connectivity has expanded access to major cities and economic hubs, while also improving access to education and healthcare facilities in neighbouring states.
Freight operations on the Bairabi–Sairang line commenced soon after its inauguration. The first freight movement on September 14 involved the transportation of 21 cement wagons from Assam to Aizawl. Since then, the route has been used to carry essential goods such as cement, construction materials, automobiles, sand, and stone chips.
The first parcel consignment from Sairang was booked on September 19, with Anthurium flowers transported to Anand Vihar Terminal through the parcel van attached to the Sairang–Anand Vihar Terminal Rajdhani Express. Between September 17 and December 12, a total of 17 rakes were handled. The Ministry said these developments indicate that the line is emerging as a reliable logistics corridor, helping reduce transport costs and support Mizoram’s economic and infrastructure growth.
(ANI)