PM Modi inaugurated Mizoram’s Bairabi–Sairang railway line and launched projects worth ₹9,000 crore, enhancing rail and road connectivity, boosting trade, tourism, and education, while placing Aizawl on India’s railway map for the first time.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over ₹9,000 crore in Mizoram on Saturday, marking a transformative step in the state’s connectivity and growth. The highlight of the event was the inauguration of the long-awaited 51.38-km Bairabi–Sairang railway project, along with the launch of three new train services that will link Mizoram more closely with the rest of India.
Historic Railway Milestone
The Bairabi–Sairang line is a landmark achievement for the North-eastern state, as it places Aizawl on the country’s railway map for the first time. With this, Aizawl becomes the fourth capital city in the Northeast to be connected by rail after Guwahati, Agartala, and Itanagar. The newly introduced services include the Sairang–Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express (weekly), the Kolkata–Sairang Express (tri-weekly), and the Guwahati–Sairang Express (daily).
Calling the project a “lifeline of transformation,” PM Modi said the connectivity will revolutionize lives and livelihoods in Mizoram. “From today, Aizawl will be on India’s railway map. A few years ago, I had the opportunity of laying the foundation stone of this railway line, and today, we proudly dedicate it to the people of the nation,” he remarked.
Connectivity Challenges Overcome
The Prime Minister highlighted the difficult terrain of Mizoram, which posed significant challenges to engineers and workers. “The skills of our engineers and the spirit of our workers made this possible,” he noted. Despite weather and geographic hurdles, the project was completed, symbolizing resilience and determination.
The new rail link is expected to provide a major economic boost to Mizoram. Farmers and businesses will now have access to wider markets across India. Moreover, enhanced connectivity will expand opportunities in education and healthcare while generating employment in tourism, transport, and hospitality sectors.
A Symbol of Integration
PM Modi underlined the values of Mizoram’s people, stating, “Whether it is the freedom movement or nation building, the people of Mizoram have always come forward to contribute. Sacrifice and service, courage and compassion—these values are at the centre of Mizo society.” He emphasized that the railway project symbolizes not just physical infrastructure, but a stronger bond of integration between Mizoram and the rest of the country.
The Prime Minister also flagged off the three newly introduced trains virtually, noting that for the first time, Sairang will be directly connected to Delhi via the Rajdhani Express.
Road Infrastructure for Faster Growth
In addition to the railway inauguration, PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for several key road projects in Mizoram, including the Aizawl Bypass Road, Thenzawl–Sialsuk Road, and Khankawn–Rongura Road. These initiatives will reduce travel time from southern districts to Aizawl by approximately 1.5 hours, significantly improving mobility in the state.
The Khankawn–Rongura Road under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) will particularly benefit horticulture farmers and support the proposed Ginger Processing Plant in Serchhip District by improving market access.
Boosting Education Infrastructure
Reinforcing his government’s commitment to education, PM Modi also inaugurated an Eklavya Model Residential School at Tlangnuam. This institution aims to improve enrolment, reduce dropout rates, and provide holistic educational opportunities for tribal youth, aligning with the broader vision of inclusive and equitable education.
A Vision for Mizoram’s Future
PM Modi’s two-day visit to the Northeast signifies the central government’s renewed focus on infrastructure-led growth in the region. Despite heavy rain preventing his helicopter journey from Lengpui Airport to Lammual Ground in Aizawl, he virtually addressed the large gathering.
| Also Read: PM Modi: “Viksit Bharat” Stronger with “Viksit Manipur” Vision |
The projects collectively reflect the government’s effort to bring Mizoram closer to the national mainstream through modern infrastructure, better connectivity, and expanded opportunities. For the people of Mizoram, the railway inauguration is not just an infrastructural upgrade, but a symbol of hope, progress, and transformation.
