Aizawl set for rail connectivity with Bairabi-Sairang Line

IRCTC, Mizoram Govt ink MoU to boost tourism

Maligaon, August 11 (MExN): Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, is set to be linked to the Indian Railways network for the first time with the completion of the Bairabi–Sairang New Railway Line Project under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR). 

Upon commissioning, railway services will reach Sairang, located just a short distance from Aizawl, significantly improving accessibility to the hill state of NE, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer, NFR stated.

In anticipation of this development, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mizoram government to promote inbound and outbound tourism for the state, in August 2025. 

Under the agreement, IRCTC will serve as the front-end marketing agency, while Mizoram Tourism will provide access to tourism infrastructure, including tourist lodges, and collaborate on curated travel packages. The partnership also aims to develop local Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and service providers to facilitate transport, accommodation, and guided tours showcasing Mizoram’s culture.

This includes the tapestry of festivals where communities come together with feasting, bamboo dances, traditional folk music and ceremonial rituals imbued with meaning. Beyond cultural festivities, Mizoram also offers a rich tourism canvas consisting of emerald valleys, lush green hills, pristine waterfalls and heritage sites. The state has increasingly gained traction in adventure tourism and is recognized for its warm hospitality and peaceful ambience. Together, these elements underscore Mizoram’s immense potential as a destination that celebrates both cultural heritage and sustainable, experiential tourism.

The agreement also aligns with IRCTC’s plan to introduce a special tourist train under its “Discover NE beyond Guwahati” programme, with Aizawl included as a key destination. This service, expected to be launched soon following the commencement of train operations that will focus on budget-friendly tourism and sustainable travel experiences.