Mizoram – Mizoram marked a major milestone in regional connectivity on Monday with the inauguration of the Sairang–Silchar rail service, linking the state more closely with neighbouring Assam.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, on 9 February, formally launched the service through a virtual ceremony, while Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma attended a commemorative programme at Sairang railway station. He was joined by Rural Development Minister Lalnilawma, Revenue Minister B. Lalchhanzova, and Adviser to the Chief Minister TBC Lalvenchhunga.
Addressing the gathering, Lalduhoma described the new rail link as a historic step in Mizoram’s development journey. He said the service would not only improve passenger convenience but also open up fresh economic opportunities by expanding market access for local produce such as ginger. The Chief Minister emphasised that Silchar should be seen as Mizoram’s “economic gateway” rather than simply a neighbouring city.
Lalduhoma credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy for placing the Northeast firmly on India’s development map, noting that improved connectivity has transformed perceptions of the region once considered remote. He also thanked Railway Minister Vaishnaw for responding positively to Mizoram’s request to operationalise the route.
Highlighting the rapid growth of Sairang station since it became operational five months ago, Lalduhoma praised the Ministry of Railways and NF Railway’s Lumding division for their infrastructure push. He proposed additional measures to strengthen connectivity, including a warehouse facility at Sairang to support entrepreneurs, completion of the proposed rail line to Thenzawl Peace City in Mamit district, and extension of the New Delhi–Silchar Rajdhani Express up to Sairang.
