Indian Railways continues its strides in enhancing connectivity across the Northeastern states through various railway projects aligned with the ‘Capital Connectivity’ initiatives and the ‘Act East Policy’ of the Indian government.
Anil Kumar Khandelwal, Member Infrastructure of the Railway Board, undertook a comprehensive inspection of key ongoing railway projects of the North Frontier Railway (NFR) from May 13th to May 15th, 2024. The projects surveyed include the Bhairabi – Sairang New Line Project, the Jiribam – Imphal New Line Project, and the Agartala – Akhaura International Rail Connectivity Project.
On May 13th, 2024, Anil Kumar Khandelwal meticulously examined the progress of the Bhairabi – Sairang New railway line project, aimed at fostering robust rail connectivity between Mizoram and the rest of India. This project, nearing completion, is set to cover approximately 51.38 km of railway track in Mizoram, featuring 55 major bridges, 87 minor bridges, and a total tunnel length of 12,853 meters. Notably, the tallest pier of bridge no. 196 stands at an impressive height of 104 meters, surpassing the Qutub Minar by 42 meters.
Continuing the inspection, Member Infrastructure Khandelwal assessed the Jiribam – Imphal New Line Project on May 14th, 2024. This initiative, spanning 111 km, endeavours to integrate Manipur into the national rail network. With 52 tunnels, 11 major bridges, and 129 minor bridges, the project is progressing steadily, with approximately 77% of the work already accomplished. Noteworthy is the construction of the world’s tallest pier railway bridge, reaching a remarkable height of 141 meters.
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These railway endeavours promise to revolutionise connectivity in Mizoram and Manipur, stimulating socio-economic growth by facilitating access to long-distance travel and affordable transportation of essential goods. Additionally, the projects hold the potential to invigorate small-scale industries in the region.
Concluding the inspection tour on May 15th, 2024, Member Infrastructure Khandelwal visited the Agartala – Akhaura International Rail Connectivity Project. This ambitious endeavour aims to establish a dual-gauge station linking India’s Agartala with Bangladesh’s Akhaura station via the international immigration station at Nischintpur, Tripura.
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