Guwahati, January 2 (MExN): Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has introduced its new timetable with effect from January 1, 2026, aimed at improving passenger convenience and operational efficiency across the North Eastern region.
Under the new timetable, NFR has regularised 20 train services introduced during 2025, including Mail, Express and Passenger trains connecting Guwahati, Sairang, Dibrugarh, Agartala, North Lakhimpur, Katihar, Jogbani and Anand Vihar, among other destinations.
The frequency of the Silchar–Mahishashan passenger trains has been increased from two days a week to six days a week. The timetable also incorporates 12 pairs of special trains on key long-distance routes to manage peak-season rush.
More than 170 new stoppages have been provided for existing trains across Assam, Tripura, West Bengal, Bihar and adjoining areas. NFR has also enabled several long-distance and premium trains, including the Rajdhani Express, to operate under end-to-end electric traction, reducing dependence on diesel locomotives and improving punctuality.
Agartala–Dharmanagar Passenger, Silchar–Agartala Express get LHB rakes
NFR has introduced modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches on two key train services—Agartala–Dharmanagar–Agartala Passenger and Silchar–Agartala–Silchar Express—to enhance passenger safety, comfort and travel experience in the region.
The upgraded LHB rake of Agartala–Dharmanagar–Agartala Passenger train (No. 55675/55676) was flagged off on January 1, 2026, at Agartala Railway Station by Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee and MLA Mina Rani Sarkar.
Similarly, the Silchar–Agartala–Silchar Express (No. 15664/15663) with LHB coaches was flagged off at Silchar Railway Station by Rajya Sabha MP Kanad Purkayastha, Lok Sabha MP Parimal Suklabaidya and MLA Dipayan Chakraborty in the presence of senior railway officials.
The LHB coaches, which replace conventional ICF coaches, feature advanced safety systems such as anti-climbing devices, superior braking and improved suspension, along with better seating, enhanced interiors and higher maintenance standards.
India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train to connect Assam, Bengal
Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday said India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will operate between Kamakhya in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal.
Designed for overnight travel with a maximum speed potential of up to 180 kmph, the semi-high-speed sleeper train features world-class amenities aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, safety and operational efficiency.
The 16-coach rake has a total capacity of 823 passengers, comprising 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches and one First AC coach. Passenger amenities include cushioned ergonomic berths, advanced suspension, noise reduction systems, automatic doors with vestibules, a modern passenger information system, facilities for Divyangjan, contemporary toilets and advanced disinfectant technology.
Major electrification milestone achieved in Tinsukia Division
NFR has achieved a major milestone in its electrification programme with the successful completion of key electrification works in the Tinsukia Division.
On December 30, 2025, Principal Chief Electrical Engineer (PCEE) Yogesh Partait inspected the completed electrification works on the Tinsukia–Dangari and Makum–Ledo sections of the division. With this achievement, NFR has electrified 4,170.19 route kilometres (RKM) out of a total 4,324.15 RKM, achieving 96.43% electrification across the zone as on December 31, 2025.
The inspection covered 90.314 route kilometres (RKM) and 106.10 track kilometres (TKM). During the inspection, overhead equipment was successfully energised by extending traction power supply from the Dibrugarh traction sub-station, followed by a successful electric locomotive current collection test at full sectional speed, confirming readiness for commercial operations.
