The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Sumeet Singhal, has authorised the operation of freight and passenger trains on the newly constructed 16.725 km broad-gauge (BG) line between Bhairabi and Hortoki in Mizoram. The approval was granted on 22 August 2024, following the completion of a statutory inspection of the section at the end of last month. The section is part of the ongoing 51.38 km Bhairabi-Sairang new rail line project, which is part of Indian Railways’ capital connectivity initiatives.
After a successful inspection and speed trial, the CRS has approved train operations on this newly laid line at a maximum speed of 75 km/h. This new railway line is expected to facilitate the transportation of both freight and passengers through this route.
The BG line between Bhairabi and Hortoki includes 20 major bridges, 27 minor bridges, three road overbridges, and one road underbridge. Additionally, there are 13 tunnels and covered ways in this section, which falls in seismic zone V and receives an average annual rainfall of 2,112.823 mm. The line has been designed for train operations at a maximum speed of 100 km/h on the main line and 30 km/h on loop lines, with 27.03% of the track consisting of curves. Bridges 40 and 42 are equipped with ballast-less tracks, and the entire section is free from level crossing gates. The section is also fitted with an electronic interlocking system and MACL signalling. Communication between stations will be facilitated by an OFC system with 25-watt VHF. Hortoki Railway Station has been provided with a new foot overbridge, a waiting hall, a second-class waiting room, covered platforms, and separate toilets for men and women.
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The Bhairabi-Sairang railway project, which involves the construction of numerous tunnels and bridges in challenging terrain, includes a total of 12,853 metres of tunnels. The project will feature 55 major bridges and 89 minor bridges. The construction of the tallest pier of the project, Pier P-4 of Bridge No. 196, located near Sairang Station, has been completed. This pier stands at 104 metres, making it 42 metres taller than the Qutub Minar. The project will also include four stations: Hortoki, Kawnpui, Mualkhang, and Sairang.
Upon completion, the 51.38 km Bhairabi-Sairang rail line is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for the people of Mizoram, promote the growth of small-scale industries in the area, and boost tourism in the state.
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