A Historic Milestone
The Bairabi-Sairang railway line represents a significant achievement, marking the first time Mizoram has been linked to the national railway network.
This event, occurring 172 years after the launch of Indian Railways, symbolizes a major infrastructure advancement for the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized its importance, hailing it as a crucial 'lifeline of transportation' that connects Mizoram to the rest of the country. The project's success reflects the dedication of engineers and workers who navigated the challenging Himalayan terrain to build the route. The initial phase sees the Rajdhani Express now operational on this track, linking Mizoram directly to Delhi, which also promises to boost connectivity and access for the residents of Mizoram.
Engineering Marvels Unveiled
The construction of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line was an intricate endeavor, requiring extensive engineering solutions to overcome the challenging geographical features. The project involved the creation of 45 tunnels, spanning a total of 51 km, and the construction of 45 bridges to navigate the rugged terrain. The longest bridge on this route measures approximately 1.3 km. In addition to the major bridges, the line also includes 87 minor bridges, five road overbridges, and six road underbridges. The dedication and expertise of the engineers and workers were critical to the realization of this railway line, showcasing their ability to transform a vision into reality despite facing tough environmental conditions. The result is an efficient and visually stunning route that offers a new travel experience through Mizoram.
Connecting Mizoram To India
The Bairabi-Sairang express significantly improves transportation efficiency, substantially reducing travel time between Silchar, Assam, and Mizoram. Previously, the journey by road took approximately 10 hours, but now, with the railway, the travel time is cut down to about 3 hours. This direct link also connects Mizoram to the national railway network via Bhodahpur Junction. This integration aligns with the Indian Railways' plans to connect other northeastern states, including Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Sikkim, by 2030, under the 'Act East' policy. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and boost economic activities, with enhanced connectivity expected to facilitate trade and tourism, improving overall accessibility for the residents and visitors of Mizoram.
Boosting Local Tourism
The launch of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line is expected to significantly boost tourism in Mizoram, enhancing the state's appeal to both domestic and international visitors. The journey itself provides travelers with a captivating experience, offering scenic views of the Mizoram landscape like never before. Local tourists are seen enjoying the picturesque journey, which includes a combination of natural beauty and modern facilities. The introduction of the Rajdhani Express will also connect Sairang directly with Delhi, further increasing accessibility. This enhanced connectivity is likely to encourage more people to visit Mizoram, supporting the local economy and highlighting the state’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
