Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday virtually inaugurated the Sairang–Silchar (Assam) train service from Guwahati, along with the Blended Hospitality Service at Guwahati Railway Station.
The train was formally flagged off at Sairang Railway Station by Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, accompanied by members of his council of ministers.
The Railway Minister, in his address, stated that extensive work is underway to improve connectivity in Assam and the entire Northeast, with several new projects being taken up and many long-pending projects already completed.
He noted that over the past 11 years, nearly 1,900 kilometres of new Railway tracks have been constructed across Northeast, marking a transformational phase for rail infrastructure in the region.
Vaishnaw highlighted that the train service flagged off today between Silchar and Sairang adds a new dimension to the benefits being extended to the people of Mizoram and Assam.
He observed that the extension of Railway connectivity to Sairang had been inaugurated a few months ago by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by the introduction of new train services and that the Government has been receiving positive feedbacks from citizens regarding improved connectivity to Mizoram.
Addressing the gathering at Sairang train station, the state Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Act East Policy has elevated Mizoram and the North Eastern region to a more prominent position in the nation’s development journey.
He observed that areas once considered remote are now experiencing transformative connectivity, with the Sairang–Silchar rail service marking a major milestone in that progress.
Lalduhoma said the new rail link would further strengthen connectivity with Assam, expand market access for Mizoram’s agricultural produce—particularly ginger and other crops—and reinforce the State’s flagship Bana Kaih (hand-holding) scheme.
He expressed gratitude to the Union Railway Minister for acceding to his request to operationalise the Sairang–Silchar service.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Silchar, the Chief Minister described it as not merely a neighbouring city but a vital economic gateway for Mizoram, adding that the new service would significantly contribute to the State’s economic growth.
He also recalled that Sairang Railway Station, inaugurated five months ago by the Prime Minister, has already witnessed substantial developmental activity within a short period. Commending the efforts of the Ministry of Railways—particularly the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Lumding Division—he acknowledged their role in advancing rail infrastructure in the region.
The Chief Minister further stressed the need for a warehouse facility at Sairang Railway Station to support the Handholding Scheme and local entrepreneurs. He also urged the early finalisation of the rail line to Thenzawl Peace City and advocated for extending the Delhi–Silchar Rajdhani Express up to Sairang.
Following the inauguration, Lalduhoma reviewed the proposed design for upgrading Sairang Railway Station into a World Class Railway Station.
Railway officials informed him that Rs. 97 crore has been sanctioned for the project, tenders have been issued, and the opening of tenders is expected in March.
A press statement issued by the Railway Ministry said the Sairang–Silchar Passenger Train will significantly strengthen rail connectivity between Mizoram and Assam. The service will benefit the people of Silchar as well as Mizoram by improving access to education, healthcare, markets and administrative centres.
It is expected to boost tourism, facilitate easier movement of goods between the two states, enable the supply of goods manufactured in Mizoram to markets in Silchar and reduce dependence on road transport, particularly in the hilly terrain.
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