Indian Railways boosts northeast connectivity with new freight and passenger trains in Nagaland and Mizoram. Projects under Act East Policy promise economic growth, better trade access, job opportunities, and enhanced travel options for remote north-eastern regions.
The Indian Railways has recently initiated freight train operations from Nagaland, following the successful launch of train services in Mizoram. These developments mark a significant step in connecting remote north-eastern states to the national railway network, fostering economic growth and improving regional accessibility.
The Ministry of Railways began freight train operations from Molvom station in Nagaland in September 2025. The first inbound rake, comprising 41 wagons of cement from Telangana, arrived at Molvom on September 24. This was soon followed by the first outward rake, which departed Molvom on September 29 carrying 42 wagons of stone chips destined for Jirania in Tripura. These inaugural operations underscore the increasing importance of railway freight transport in the region, supporting local industries and construction projects while facilitating the movement of essential goods.
Indian Railways is also actively working to extend the rail network to Nagaland’s state capital. The Dimapur–Kohima (Dhansiri–Zubza) rail line project is underway, with a section up to Molvom already completed. The final phase, which will reach Zubza near Kohima, is projected to be completed by December 2029, promising direct rail connectivity to the capital city for the first time.
Meanwhile, Mizoram has also entered the national railway map with the inauguration of the Bairabi–Sairang railway line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13, 2025. This landmark 51-kilometre project, constructed at a cost of over Rs 8,000 crore, connects Aizawl to India’s national railway network for the first time. Alongside the railway inauguration, PM Modi flagged off three new passenger train services connecting Sairang to Delhi (Rajdhani Express), Kolkata (Mizoram Express), and Guwahati (Aizawl Intercity).
The construction of the Mizoram railway line posed significant engineering challenges due to the region’s hilly terrain. Railway engineers had to build 143 bridges and 45 tunnels, with one of the bridges even surpassing the height of Qutub Minar. The track design exemplifies the complex engineering solutions required in Himalayan regions, often alternating between bridges and tunnels to navigate difficult landscapes efficiently.
These infrastructure developments align with the government’s Act East Policy, aimed at improving connectivity and economic integration across the north-eastern states. Since 2014, there has been a substantial increase in railway budget allocations for the region. The 2025 fiscal year alone has seen Rs 10,440 crore allocated, while total allocations from 2014 to 2025 have reached Rs 62,477 crore. Currently, projects worth Rs 77,000 crore are under implementation, reflecting the government’s long-term commitment to rail development in the northeast.
Officials from Indian Railways have highlighted the transformative impact of these developments. “The growing demand for both passenger and freight services showcases how railway connectivity is reshaping lives in the Northeast. Beyond convenience, these new links promise economic growth, better market access for local products, and new opportunities for trade and employment,” an official statement noted.
The new railway links are expected to bring multiple benefits to the region. Freight operations will enable easier movement of construction materials, agricultural products, and industrial goods, boosting local economies. Passenger train services will provide residents with faster, safer, and more reliable transport options, reducing travel time and facilitating cultural and commercial exchange with other parts of India.
Moreover, these projects are anticipated to create employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases, while promoting tourism by making previously remote areas more accessible. In the long run, enhanced railway connectivity will contribute to a more integrated and economically resilient north-eastern region.
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In summary, the launch of freight and passenger train services in Nagaland and Mizoram represents a historic step in India’s infrastructure development strategy. By bridging remote areas with major economic centers, the Indian Railways is playing a crucial role in fostering regional development, strengthening trade, and improving the daily lives of people in the northeast.
