The dream of connecting Aizawl by rail is on the cusp of becoming reality. The Bairabi-Sairang railway line is scheduled for inauguration this week, representing a crucial infrastructure development for Mizoram. This new rail service will drastically cut travel time between Aizawl and Silchar to approximately three hours, a major improvement over the current road travel time of seven hours. The trains will be capable of reaching speeds of 100 kmph.
The Bairabi-Sairang railway line, spanning 51.38 km and costing roughly Rs 8,000 crore, showcases remarkable engineering. The route navigates the challenging terrain of Mizoram, featuring 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges. The combined length of the tunnels is 12,853 meters. Bridge number 196 is a key feature, reaching a height of 104 meters, exceeding the Qutub Minar’s height by 42 meters.
The project also includes 5 road over bridges and 6 road under bridges. The railway line is divided into four segments: Bairabi-Hortoki, Hortoki-Kawnpui, Kawnpui-Mualakhang, and Mualakhang–Sairang. The project will establish the first direct rail connection to Aizawl, Mizoram’s capital. This will significantly improve the movement of passengers and freight, contributing to the state’s social and economic advancement, and fulfilling a long-held desire of the residents.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) approved the final section of the project, Hortoki to Sairang, earlier this year. Inspection of the line was conducted via motor trolley and on foot, followed by a speed test using a diesel engine-powered inspection train. This 29.5 km section through hilly terrain has 32 tunnels and 35 major bridges. The CRS inspection was completed in June 2025, and the entire 51.38 km railway line is now ready, ushering in a new era for Mizoram’s transportation capabilities.