Mizoram train underscores frontier to front-runner vision

For many decades, the North-East was considered a distant frontier, waiting for development. Our brothers and sisters living in northeastern states carried aspirations of progress, but the infrastructure and opportunities they deserved remained out of reach. All this changed when Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi initiated the Act East policy. From a distant frontier, the North-East is now recognised as a front-runner.

- Ashwini Vaishnaw

This transformation has been made possible through record investments in railways, roads, airports, and digital connectivity. Peace accords are bringing stability. People are benefiting from government schemes. For the first time since Independence, the northeastern region is seen as central to India’s development story.

Consider the investments in railways for instance. Railway budget allocation for the region has increased fivefold compared to the 2009-14. This fiscal year alone, ₹10,440 crore has been allocated. Total budgetary allocation from 2014 to 2025 is ₹62,477 Crore. Today, railway projects worth ₹77,000 crore are underway. Never before has the North-East witnessed such record levels of investment.

Mizoram is part of this growth story. The state is known for its rich culture, love for sports, and beautiful hills. Yet, for decades, it remained distant from the mainstream of connectivity. Road and air connectivity was limited. Railways had not reached its capital. Aspirations were alive, but the arteries of growth were missing. That is not the case anymore.

The inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line tomorrow by PM Modi marks a historic milestone for Mizoram. Built at a cost of over ₹8,000 crore, this 51-kilometre project will connect Aizawl to the national railway network for the first time. Along with this, the PM will also flag off three new train services from Sairang to Delhi (Rajdhani Express), Kolkata (Mizoram Express) and Guwahati (Aizawl Intercity).