Overview

• Three express services were flagged off from Sairang at launch, including a Rajdhani to Delhi and new trains to Kolkata and Guwahati.
• The 51.38‑km broad‑gauge link, built for over ₹8,000 crore, connects Mizoram’s capital to India’s rail network after years of road‑only dependence.
• Engineers drove the line through difficult hills with dozens of tunnels, 55 major bridges and a 114‑metre pier bridge near Sairang.
• Operations begin on a limited schedule with weekly services initially, and the state will enforce Inner Line Permit checks at stations as Meghalaya continues to oppose rail projects without ILP.
• Local stakeholders project lower freight costs, stronger markets for handicrafts and farm goods, tourism gains and cheaper travel for healthcare and education, while construction generated daily‑wage jobs.